The Orthodontic Department has achieved a 100% pass rate for all residents on the written part of the specialty board exam for the past 15 years.

UDM’s School of Dentistry Class of 2011 earned a 100% pass rate for the National Dental Board Part I Examination. This is the first time the School has had a 100% first-time pass rate, which places the UDM School of Dentistry #1 in the nation.

The School of Dentistry increased its first-year class size from 96 to 144 students  (two cohorts of 72 students) for fall term 2012. To support the increase in students, the School enhanced its facilities with the addition a new simulation laboratory and 21 operatories.

The Student Research Program expanded to 40 pre-doctoral students and 18 faculty mentors. Students work with faculty in basic biomedical science, clinical dental materials and educational research projects.

The “Explorations in Dentistry” program also expanded from 20 to 32 students. The program provides undergraduate students who are interested in dentistry experiences in basic dental principles and activities.

UDM's Dental Hygiene students consistently rank well above the national average in passing the National Board and state licensing examinations on the first attempt. The dental hygiene curriculum includes seven classes that are combined with dental students providing an opportunity for future dental hygienists and dentists to begin developing a team approach to practice.

Professor of Dentistry Richard Kulbersch, D.D.S., is the co-recipient of the 2012 UDM Distinguished Faculty Award.