Graduate Program in Orthodontics

Description

The Department of Orthodontics at the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry is committed to the concept of excellence in Graduate Orthodontic Education. The achievement of excellence demands, in part, a balanced program consisting of advanced instruction in diagnosis and treatment planning, clinical treatment, and the psychological and biological aspects of human growth and development. The fulfillment of such a concept also demands a dynamic and dedicated faculty, as well as a variety of active affiliations with medical and dental diagnostic and treatment centers in the Metropolitan Detroit area.

It is our belief that the development of scientific attitudes, of inquiring minds, and of professional curiosity is every bit as important as the development of technical skill and craftsmanship. Put differently, we are dedicated to the task of producing not only a competent orthodontic specialist, but also a professional person—professional in every sense of the word.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

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    Clinical and Research Affiliations

    The Department maintains a number of active affiliations with neighboring institutions in order to provide a broader scope and more in-depth exposure to both clinical and research procedures.

    Hospitals

    For example, the Department maintains active affiliations with Beaumont Hospitals and St. John's - Macomb. The affiliation with those hospitals provides exposure in the treatment of orthognathic surgery patients as well as the facilities that provide this type of treatment. The affiliation with Beaumont also provides in-depth exposure in diagnosis and treatment for patients with facial anomalies, including cleft lip and palate.

    Research

    A number of student research projects have been conducted with the help of facilities and personnel at the University of Michigan's Center for Human Growth and Development.

    Associations

    In addition to the clinical and research experiences outlined above, graduate students participate in Department presentations and scientific exhibits at a number of regional and national orthodontic meetings such as those held by the Great Lakes Society of Orthodontists and the American Association of Orthodontists.

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    The Orthodontic Clinic Experience

    Clinical Teaching

    The Graduate Orthodontic Clinic is in operation five days every week. During this time, five separate and distinct "Clinical Teaching Teams", functioning one-half day each week, instruct the graduate students in variously modified approaches to treatment utilizing the edgewise mechanism. The students also spend approximately four half- days each week in Specialty Clinics, staffed by additional "Teaching Teams": the Mixed Dentition and TMJ (semesters 1-4 only) clinics operate alternate half day each week. The Advanced Orthodontic Clinics meet one-half day per week in the second year.

    Immediate Hand-on Experience

    Since it is the philosophy of the Department of Orthodontics to expose the student to as many varied clinical experiences as is both possible and practical, his or her clinical exposure is both extensive and immediate. Almost immediately after his or her arrival into the Program, each student begins treatment for approximately 35 patients in need of comprehensive therapy. In the first year he or she will have also begun treatment for approximately three Orthognathic Surgery cases, ten Mixed Dentition cases, and three TMJ cases. Therefore, each student will be directly exposed to and responsible for the treatment of about 53 active treatment patients during the first year of the training program. In addition, approximately 25 transfer patients and 55 retention patients will be assigned in the second year. These patients are carefully screened and selected from the many orthodontic examinations that are conducted each year.

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    Orthodontics Application and Admission Policies

    U.S. and Canadian Applicants

    Please follow the admissions steps as described below in order to be considered as a candidate for the graduate program in the Department of Orthodontics at Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry:

    • Application through the Postdoctoral Application Support Service program (PASS). On the PASS web site is a connecting link to the University of Detroit Mercy’s orthodontic program.
      • Applications for admissions to the orthodontic program will be available starting in May
      • The application MUST be completed and returned to PASS no later than September 1st of the year preceding your desired registration.
      • The completed PASS application should include all documents requested by PASS.
    • Applicants MUST sign up with the National Match to receive a MATCH number.
    • All applicants MUST take the new Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT).
      • We understand the scores will not be available until sometime in September, however, you MUST submit your application by the September 1 deadline even without the ADAT score.
      • PASS will automatically add your ADAT score to your application when they become available.
    • Please send the REQUIRED two additional materials listed below by September 1st to the address listed below*
      • $75.00 application fee paid directly to: University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, Orthodontic Department
      • A 2”X2” passport size photograph with name on the back

    Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
    Orthodontic Department
    2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
    Detroit, MI 48208-2576

    *Failure to include these required materials will result in application rejection

    After preliminary screening, those candidates being considered for admission will be notified of a required interview appointment with members of the Orthodontic Admissions Committee. These interviews will be scheduled in late October to early November. Five students are accepted into the graduate program per academic year**.

    Upon notification of the National Match results in December and acceptance into the program a non-refundable $1500 deposit is required. During the period between January and July prior to the beginning of the formal program, each accepted student will be sent some preparatory materials, a reading list, and instructions so that he or she may be better prepared to begin their intensive training in Orthodontics.

    **Admission to the Orthodontics Program for all applicants graduating from ADA accredited US or Canadian dental schools is based on academic credentials as well as other appropriate credentials requested by PASS and the postgraduate orthodontic program. Candidates are not judged on race, religion, or national origin.

    Foreign Dental School Applicants

    At the present time all individuals in foreign countries may apply. All foreign applicants must complete the following exams to be considered as a candidate for the Department of Orthodontics at the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry:

    • Completion of the TOEFL test
      • Graduates of foreign dental schools must demonstrate competence in the English language.
      • Non-native English speakers are required to complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 600 on the paper-based examination, 250 on the computer-based examination or 100 on the Internet-based examination.
    • Pass the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment (CDCA) Part 1
    • Completion of the Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)
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    Orthodontics Program Fees and Expenses

    The following chart shows the estimated cost of two years of study leading to the MS Degree in Orthodontics at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry.

    First Year

    Tuition $74,834.00
    Books, instruments, equipment & camera* Pending
    School Fees $1,002.00
    Instrument Rental $6,000.00
    Total $81,836.00

    Second Year

    Tuition $74,834.00
    Books, instruments, equipment & camera* none
    School Fees $500.00
    Instrument Rental $6,000.00
    Total $81,334.00

    *All Post-Graduate Students must have Health Insurance Coverage or must enroll in the university plan provided through Aetna Health Insurance Policy; for the Waive/Enroll process go to: www.aetnastudenthealth.com.  Fees are subject to change without notice. It is anticipated that the costs of tuition and books will increase commensurate with inflation, budget needs, or similar affecting factors. Current costs are available upon request.

    It is not possible for our full-time graduate students to work outside of the graduate program while enrolled. Such outside activity would seriously compromise the educational experience and the fulfillment of responsibilities to the patients and the Department of Orthodontics.

    *Includes a 35mm digital camera equipment capable of taking intraoral color photographs

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    Orthodontics Curriculum

    The primary purpose of this program is to prepare the dentist for the clinical practice of orthodontics while providing insight into the scientific basis of orthodontics. It is designed to cover two calendar years, which includes six terms, two of them being summer sessions. It will begin July 1st and June 30th two years later. The program combines a basic science foundation with clinical and psychological training relevant to treatment.

    Special instructions are given in functional rehabilitation for adult and juvenile dentition, diagnosis, treatment planning and associated appliance therapy. Emphasis will be placed upon the function of the neuromuscular system and the temporomandibular joint as affected by the teeth and facial pattern. Special opportunity is provided to work with cleft lip and palate patients as well as individuals exhibiting other facial anomalies.

    The major portion of the course material in orthodontics is presented by lecture, seminar and conference instruction. Clinical lectures and seminars are supplemented and emphasized by correction of malocclusions in the Orthodontic Clinic. The principal appliance mechanism used in the clinic is the edgewise appliance. Guest lectures are presented throughout the first and second years to acquaint the student with other areas of research and therapy related to orthodontics. Research by the graduate will permit the investigation of problems in almost any area of student interest.

    The Degree of Master of Science will be granted by Detroit Mercy upon the satisfactory completion of all requirements, which include a minimum of 46 credit hours, the satisfactory defense of the student's research results, and the completion of the research paper.

    Required Courses Include:

    Orthodontic Technique
    Craniofacial Growth and Development
    Craniofacial Anatomy
    Orthodontic Clinic and Seminar
    Early Treatment Clinic & Seminar
    Oral Physiology
    Research Project
    Dentofacial Abnormalities
    Principles of Occlusion and TMJ Therapy
    Physiology & Pharmaco-therapeutics
    Microbiology and Asepsis
    Cleft Lip and Palate
    Communication Disorders
    Biomechanics
    Psychological Development
    Research Methodology and Biostatistics
    Craniofacial Pathology and Genetics
    Literature Analysis
    Cephalometrics
    Public Health Aspects of Orthodontics
    Periodontics
    Practice Management
    Ethics and Jurisprudence

    For course descriptions, click here.

    Curriculum

    ORTHODONTIC POST GRADUATE CURRICULUM

    Two year curriculum July 1st to June 30th of second year.                                                          7/17

     

    Orthodontics SUMMER TERM First Year (5 wks) - Preclinical Orientation

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DBS 5010

    Head & Neck Anatomy

    M. Ahmad

    2

    DOD 5000

    Orthodontic Technique

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5100

    Roentgenographic Cephalometrics

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    Def

    DOD 5780

    Biomechanics

    M. Siddiqi / R. Kulbersh

    Def 

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    TOTALS

    2

     

    Orthodontics FALL TERM First Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5000

    Orthodontic Technique

    R. Kulbersh

    6

    DOD 5010

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5100

    Roentgenographic Cephalometrics

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    1

    DOD 5140

    Physiology of Bone & Tooth Movement

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    1

    DOD 5210

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5310

    TMJ and Occlusion Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5510

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5710

    Craniofacial Growth and Development

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5780

    Biomechanics

    M. Siddiqi / R. Kulbersh

    DOD 5830

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5910

    Basic Research Methodology

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    1.5

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    TOTALS

    24


    Orthodontics WINTER TERM First Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DSD 5111

    Ethics & Professional Responsibility

    P. Zarkowski

    1

    DOD 5020

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5120

    Orthodontic Literature Review

    D. Thanik/R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5220

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5320

    TMJ and Occlusion Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5380

    Journal Club

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5440

    Human Development

    S. Ceresnie/R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5520

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/  

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5710

    Craniofacial Growth and Development

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DBS 5720

    Microbiology and Asepsis

    E. Krukonis

    2

    DOD 5840

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar/R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5920

    Basic Research Methods Biostatistics

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    2

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DRD 5000

    Graduate Dental Materials

    R. Pacheco

    1

    TOTALS

    26.5

     

    Orthodontics SPRING TERM First Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5030

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5230

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5330

    Occlusion and TMJ Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5530

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/  

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5630

    Speech Physiology and Pathology

    K. Nolan / R. Kulbersh

    1

    DOD 5850

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5980

    Craniofacial Pathology and Genetics

    F. Khosrow-Shahian / R. Kulbersh

    1

    TOTALS

    15.5

     

    Orthodontics SUMMER TERM Second Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    TOTALS

    0

     

    Orthodontics FALL TERM Second Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5040

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5070

    Orthodontic/Periodontic Seminar & Clinic

    B. Kinaia / R. Kulbersh

    1

    DOD 5130

    Retention Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5240

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5340

    TMJ and Occlusion Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5540

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh /  R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5740

    Advanced Orthodontic Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5781

    Biomaterials-Biomechanics

    A. Haerian

    1

    DOD 5860

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5990

    Physiology and Pharmacotherapeutics

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    TOTALS

    16


    Orthodontics WINTER TERM Second Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5050

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5080

    Orthodontic/Periodontic Seminar and Clinic

    B. Kinaia / R. Kulbersh

    1

    DOD 5130

    Retention Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5250

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh /

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5390

    Journal Club

    D. Thanik / R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5550

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh /

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5640

    Practice Teaching

    R. Al-Qawasmi

    2

    DOD 5650

    Table Clinic Preparation

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5750

    Advanced Orthodontic Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5870

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    Def

    DOD 5950

    Advanced Orthodontic Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    2

    DOD 5990

    Physiology and Pharmacotherapeutics

    R. Kulbersh

    3

    TOTALS

    24.5

     

    Orthodontics SPRING TERM Second Year

    New Course #

     

    Course Title

    Course Director

    Cr. Hr.

    DOD 5060

    Orthodontic Seminar and Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    7

    DOD 5090

    Orthodontic/Periodontic Seminar and Clinic

    B. Kinaia / R. Kulbersh

    1

    DOD 5130

    Retention Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    1

    DOD 5260

    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5560

    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar and Clinic

    V. Pangrazio-Kulbersh/ R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5760

    Advanced Orthodontic Clinic

    R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5880

    Cleft Lip Palate Seminar and Clinic

    J. Spolyar / R. Kulbersh

    1.5

    DOD 5930

    Research Project

    R. Kulbersh

    6

    DOD 5940

    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    R. Kulbersh

    1

    TOTALS

    22


    Course Descriptions

    DOD 5000
    Orthodontic Technique

    A comprehensive study of the mechanical principles and practices which are used in the clinical correction of dental and skeletal malocclusion. Emphasis is place on the application of sound engineering principles to known biological mechanisms. A broad range of appliances will be used to better understand their use and limitation. Several exemplary cases of malocclusion are treated on the typodont demonstrating the mechanical approaches to be used in the orthodontic clinic.

    DOD 5010-5060
    Orthodontic Clinic & Seminar

    The clinical delivery of comprehensive orthodontic care to patients with various forms of malocclusion.  Each student will initiate and complete (75%) treatment for approximately 32-40 patients, treated in five different half-day clinic segments,  with varying types and degrees of malocclusion. The ABO Discrepancy Index and Objective Grading System are used to assess case complexity and outcomes. While a variety of appliances will be used in the clinic, the basic appliance of choice is the edgewise mechanism. Each seminar segment includes presentation of case reports to the staff, evaluation of patient response in clinic, discussion of techniques, office management, and patient control, as well as all aspects of the science, philosophy and art of orthodontics. Selected chapters from Proffit’s and Graber’s texts are also assigned to supplement information provided in class discussion.

    DOD 5070-5090
    Orthodontic/Periodontic Seminar & Clinic

    This seminar and clinic segment course is designed to provide basic didactic and clinical knowledge necessary for the treatment of patients presenting with combined ortho-perio problems. Third year perio and second year ortho residents attend this course and are responsible for jointly presenting case reports and treating selected cases.

    DOD 5100
    Roentgenographic Cephalometrics

    This course presents the basic principles and techniques in radiology as related to orthodontics.  The anatomy, landmarks, terminology, techniques and interpretation of radiographs of the head will be discussed.  Several of the most commonly used cephalometric analyses will be studied and applied to clinical patients.  In addition, students will learn how to do and interpret overall and regional superimpositions. The cephalometrics’ exercises employed will utilize both digital and hand tracing techniques.

    DOD 5120
    Orthodontic Literature Review

    The students are requested to thoroughly investigate and report on various topics pertinent to the history and practice of orthodontics.  The reports are an in-depth survey of the literature with bibliography, presented in a seminar format, in PowerPoint, to their classmates.

    DOD 5130
    Retention Clinic

    This clinic segment will offer the student the opportunity to be involved with the treatment and management of patients in active orthodontic retention status. In particular, patients presenting with the need for a variety of retention appliances and retention needs. The students will be introduced to the basic principles of retention as well as such appliances as upper/lower Hawleys, positioners, invisible retainers and bonded appliances. The main educational component of this course will consist of chairside delivery of care in conjunction with resident, patient and faculty one-on-one consultation. In addition, additional information will be required by reading the retention chapters in the Proffit and Graber textbooks.

    DOD 5140
    Physiology of Bone & Tooth Movement

    The course will begin with an overview of hard tissue types and cells, followed by the discussion of the contributing factors to Ca hemostasis. The dynamic nature of the bone modeling and remodeling at a cellular and molecular level will then be described. The interaction of the genome with mechanical loading and its effect on bone morphology as well as periodontal ligament adaption to mechanical loading will also be addressed. Finally, to aid in the complete visualization of how these various factors interact at the cellular and molecular level, tooth movement and root resorption will be explained using the inflammatory and mechanical models in bone and PDL response. This will be used as the ultimate example to explain how all factors interact at the cellular and molecular level.

    DOD 5200
    Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

    The focus of the Basic Life Support Course for Healthcare Providers is to discuss and  simulate the basic aspects of emergency response for infants, children, and adults, ie, rescue breathing,  foreign body obstruction, chest compressions and CPR/AED for both single and two rescuers.  The ultimate goal of BLS for the HCP is to improve the care of these patients in the professional health setting, and to increase the skills and confidence of healthcare professionals who care for them.  The course finishes with a written examination and successful completion culminates in the award of a two year CPR certificate.

    DOD 5210-5260
    Early Treatment Seminar and Clinic

    Covers orthodontic treatment in the mixed dentition with emphasis on different approaches to various dentoskeletal problems. Limited treatment and treatment with functional appliances will be discussed and reviewed with assigned reading materials. Understanding development of the dentition and occlusion is emphasized. Approximately 10 patients, per orthodontic resident, with various dentoskeletal problems in the mixed dentition are assigned. The student is responsible, as appropriate, for diagnosis, case presentation, case management, retention and referral for follow-up.

    DOD 5310-5340
    TMJ and Occlusion Seminar and Clinic

    This clinic segment will offer the student the opportunity to treat cases presenting with orofacial pain and TMJ dysfunction.  Students will be required to work up a detailed diagnosis, mount models utilizing a facebow transfer, and construct, where indicated, appropriate orthotics and make necessary referral for medical and psychological follow-up.  After TMJ therapy, appropriate recommendations for necessary stabilization follow-up treatments will be made.  Time will be spent discussing risk management considerations for the TMJ-orthodontic patient and selected chapters of Okeson’s text, Management of Temporomandibular Disorders and Occlusion.

    DOD 5380-5390
    Journal Club

    A review and analysis of current orthodontic literature.  Students will read and analyze articles from AJO, Angle and other orthodontic journals.

    DOD 5440
    Human Development

    The psycho-social nature of developing children and adolescents will be discussed.  Psychological development from infancy through early adulthood will be described with emphasis placed on applying this information to the clinical delivery of health care services.  Discussions of specific management problems from the orthodontic clinic will be included in the course whenever they are applicable.

    DOD 5510-5560
    Dentofacial Abnormalities Seminar & Clinic

    This course covers the history of cooperative efforts of oral and maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists to find combined solutions to dentoskeletal and facial esthetic problems.  It will cover diagnosis and treatment planning for acquired and congenital dentofacial abnormalities disturbing the biological and social well being of affected patients.  The literature in this field will be reviewed extensively in an attempt to clarify some of the controversies surrounding the multi-faceted subject of orthognathic surgery.  Clinical cases will be evaluated and worked-up for treatment jointly by the graduate orthodontic residents and local oral surgeons.  Guest lecturers from various associated disciplines also participate in the program.

    DOD 5630
    Speech Physiology & Pathology

    A review plus detailed consideration of oral, facial and pharyngeal physiology, with particular attention to the functions of mastication, deglutition, and speech.  Particular attention will be paid to recent research concerned with relationships between oropharyngeal function, arch form, malocclusion, and speech.  The course also will entail a consideration of recent thinking and research on the subject of tongue-thrust swallowing and myofunctional therapy. In addition, the course will cover the development of normal speech, language and hearing skills, as well as a consideration of speech, language and hearing pathologies and their typical etiologies.  Attention also will be paid to the presumed relationships between aberrations of oro-facial structures and speech production.

    DOD 5640
    Practice Teaching

    This course is designed to expose the orthodontic resident to methods of teaching undergraduate dental students. This course includes the preparation and presentation of assigned lectures, under supervision, as well as overseeing specific laboratory procedures performed by the undergraduate dental students.  It also involves the grading of student exams and evaluation of projects.

    DOD 5650
    Table Clinic Preparation

    The course includes the preparation of a table clinic or oral presentation to be presented at the school’s Student Professional Day and the Annual AAO meeting. A full orthodontic case work-up, ABO-style, is also presented at the College of Diplomates of the ABO (CDABO Meeting) at the Annual AAO meeting.

    DOD 5710
    Craniofacial Growth and Development

    The course will present an introduction to the general nature of growth, growth curves, and the factors influencing growth and maturation. A review of bone formation (intramembranous and endochondral) and remodeling principles, embryology of the craniofacial complex, and osteology of the skull will serve as a springboard from which the mechanisms of growth of the calvarium, cranial base, maxilla, mandible, as well as the controlling theories of Scott, Moss, Sicher, and Van Limborgh, will be discussed. The course will terminate with an overview of the application of craniofacial growth data in clinical orthodontics.

    DOD 5720
    Microbiology and Asepsis

    An overview of current microbiological considerations in dentistry, including practical asepsis management. Students will also present recent findings and recommendations related to various topics and lead a discussion of pertinent issues for clinical practice related to each topic.

    DOD 5740-5760
    Advanced Orthodontic Clinic

    The goal of this clinic is to introduce the student to the rigors, pace, and environment of a modern day orthodontic practice.  The student will have an opportunity to improve those technical skills needed to be successful upon starting his/her own practice; including four-handed dentistry.

    DOD 5780
    Biomechanics

    This course will introduce the students to the basic physical properties of orthodontic wires and force systems.  The subjects of movements, couples, orthodontic tooth movement in three planes of space and the requirement of static equilibrium will be discussed.  These basic principles will then be utilized to analyze force systems employed in clinical practice.

    DOD 5830-5880
    Cleft Lip and Palate Seminar and Clinic

    This course is designed specifically to acquaint the graduate student with the cleft lip and palate condition and with the congenital syndromes that frequently include cleft lip and palate.  Emphasis is placed on the team approach to diagnosis and habilitation and upon the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation throughout each patient’s treatment.  The lectures are coordinated with the cleft lip and palate patients being treated by each graduate student.  The lecture series includes information on specific treatment disciplines, a review of the literature associated with cleft lip & palate as well as craniofacial anomalies. Interaction with the cleft palate team at Beaumont Hospital is part of the clinical experience.

    DOD 5910
    Basic Research Methodology

    This course is designed to teach the graduate students epidemiologic principles and methods.  Epidemiologic measures and different study designs will be introduced.  Issues that need to be considered during the design of a study will be addressed. Students will be able to apply these principles and methods to their research projects through the development of a research proposal.  Critical literature review and research proposal will help the students to start their thesis project.  At the end of this course, students will have an understanding of basic research design and methods.  In addition, lecture material will be reinforced through reading assignments and homework.

    DOD 5920
    Basic Research Methods Biostatistics

    This course is designed to teach the graduate students basic statistical principles.  The interpretation and understanding of statistical results will be emphasized.  At the end of this course, students will have an understanding of basic statistical methods to enhance their reading of the literature as well as to support their thesis projects.  Lecture material will be reinforced through homework.

    DOD 5930
    Research Project

    This course satisfies the Department’s independent research project requirement for the attainment of the M.S. degree in Orthodontics.  The Department offers a number of research facilities, opportunities, and topics, however, the student is encouraged to develop his own research question and research design, with only supportive and logistic help from the Department or the research facility involved. This course will be viewed as consisting of three phases, although graded as one at project completion in term VI. Phase I will involve formulation of the research idea, review of appropriate literature, formulation of the research hypothesis, and the methods and materials to be used in the project. Phase II will involve data collection. Phase III will involve analysis and interpretation of the data and finalization of the article to be submitted to a professional journal.

    DOD 5940
    Orthodontic Continuing Education Seminar

    A series of guest lecturers by outstanding professional persons will expose graduate students to the many diverse approaches to the practice of orthodontics not presently taught within the structured curriculum.  Emphasis will be put on the difference in individual approaches to such things as: Treatment planning and mechanics, timing of treatment, practice management, orthodontic business administration, and auxiliary utilization. In addition, issues relating to ethics, public health aspects and epidemiology of malocclusion as well as pain and anxiety control in the orthodontic patient will be addressed.  These seminars will be scheduled throughout the two years at the Universities of Michigan, Detroit Mercy and other in and out-of-state venues. Throughout the year other courses may be added based upon changing curriculum needs of the department, unique and special opportunities in didactic and clinical areas, as well as accreditation requirements of CODA.

    DOD 5950
    Advanced Orthodontic Seminar

    A series of guest lecturers by outstanding professional persons will expose graduate students to the many diverse approaches not only to the practice of orthodontics but also to the complexities of multidisciplinary patient care as viewed through the eyes of various generalists and specialists, outside of the orthodontic field.  Emphasis will be put on the difference in individual approaches to such things as: Treatment planning for the patient presenting with complex problems, timing of treatment, practice management, and orthodontic business administration.

    DOD 5980
    Craniofacial Pathology and Genetics

    A study of pathologic conditions affecting the cranio and oral regions.  Clinical features are correlated to the embryological, anatomical, and histological alterations and characteristics of each pathologic condition.  Special emphasis is given to description of these pathological syndromes with craniofacial manifestations.

    DOD 5990
    Physiology and Pharmacotherapeutics

    #1 Course Description: Case-Based Pharmacological Pain Management

     Questions such as, “My patient is taking 12 medications and has significant systemic pathology. What is the best analgesic option for his acute pain?” or, “What pharmacological strategies can I employ for chronic pain management?” can arise in dental practice. This course will present an overview of different classes of analgesic agents and the combination of analgesics, which are commonly employed in dentistry. Using various cases the presenters will lead participants to consider different pharmacological strategies for pre- and/or post-operative acute pain management, and in the selection of drug strategies for chronic pain cases.

     #2 Course Description: Antimicrobial Agents in General Dentistry

     Systemic antibiotics, antifungal, and antiviral agents are employed in dentistry t o treat and/or manage facial infections. This program will review and update oral health providers on the common antimicrobial agents employed in dentistry and focus on the pharmacology, adverse effects, and drug interactions of these agents. The presenter will compare different antibiotics and antimicrobial agents, discuss their appropriate use, indications, and contra-indications.

    #3 Course Description: Acute Pain Management in Dentistry

     

    This course will review pain pathophysiology and different classes of analgesic agents commonly used in dentistry. Specifically, the mechanism of action, adverse effects and drug interactions, as well as the indications for each class of analgesic will be presented. The presenter will discuss pharmacological strategies for pre-operative and post-operative pain management and the concept of the ‘analgesic ladder’.

    DSD 5111
    Ethics & Professional Responsibility

    The course will include presentations, discussion and online modules to provide information to the participants. The course utilizes ethical codes, regulatory law and ethical theories, recognized central values and professional obligations to enhance the foundational principles presented. Cases will be presented throughout the course to encourage discussion and analysis. Students are expected to identify an ethical dilemma and apply a decision making model for the analysis and resolution of the dilemma. Students are required to present their dilemma to student colleagues and lead an ethical rounds discussion about the case, applicable ethical and legal principles and an appropriate ethics based resolution.

    DBS 5010
    Head and Neck Anatomy

    This course consists of head and neck dissection with emphasis on structures and functions relating to dentistry in general as well as the specialities.

    DRD 5000
    Graduate Dental Materials

    This course starts out with a quick review of materials science and then builds on that review for developing descriptions of current dental materials and the material unique to Orthodontics. Important properties are discussed first and the four basic types of materials are reviewed, followed by a discussion of metals, emphasizing those important in orthodontics and the other dental specialties. This course ends with a review of polymers, cements, ceramics, and composites. The students are required to give presentations and write research reports on selected types of materials.

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    Research Project

    Orthodontics Research Program

    One of the requirements for the successful completion of the orthodontic program in the Graduate Department of Orthodontics at the University of Detroit Mercy is that you initiate, conduct, and complete an original research project, including a written article for submission to a professional journal. The basis for the requirement stems from the conviction that a research experience can, perhaps better than any other learning experience, develop and/or refine habits of critical thinking and reading. More to the point, in conducting his or her own research a student learns how to learn. It is difficult to imagine a more appropriate goal for education at any level.

    The Research Project

    Topic Requirements

    The research topic can be, for the most part, of your own choosing. However, the project must meet the generally accepted definition of "original research". In this sense, essays, reviews of the literature, and "state of the art" papers will not be acceptable as fulfilling the research project requirements. The research issue must be one that can be formulated in terms of a research hypothesis and one that is amenable to systematic and scientific investigation, including statistical evaluation of the data. Also, the project should be one that can be completed during your two-year program.

    The Director of Research and the Research Committee at the outset must approve all research topics.

    Within the limitations mentioned above, it should be obvious that the topic areas available to you are virtually unlimited. You are not required to pursue a research topic within the area of orthodontics, or even dentistry; nor must the topic necessarily be directly dentally-related. Thus, such diverse fields as acoustics, mechanical engineering, microbiology, neurology, nutrition, ophthalmology, pediatrics, physiology, and speech pathology would be entirely acceptable as areas within which you could perform your research.

    The Research Process

    The Department offers two courses whose primary goals are to provide you with sufficient understanding of the elements of the research process to enable you to satisfactorily conduct and complete a research project during your graduate program, to conduct independent research, both now and at any time in your professional life, and to enable you to more effectively analyze and evaluate material in both clinical and research dental literature. The beginning course places considerable emphasis on assisting you in the selection of a research topic, planning the design, and initiating the research. Research interactions are available with a number of departments within the Dental School as well as a variety of departments and centers at Wayne State University, University of Michigan, and selected private clinical practitioners.

    The Research Paper

    The Detroit Mercy Department of Orthodontics no longer requires the traditional thesis as the written report of your research. In place of the thesis, the Department requires that the written report take the form of an article in suitable form for submission to a professional journal. The journal to which you submit your research may be of your own choosing. If you select a target journal at the outset of your research project, the format and style of the written report will adhere to that employed by that particular journal.

    If you do not have a particular journal in mind as you begin your research, the written report will simply follow the format utilized by most professional journals in reporting research results, that is: Introduction, Review of the Literature, Methods and Materials, Results, Discussion, Summary and Conclusions, and References. The Department Chairman, the Director of Research, and your Project Advisor will work closely with you during this phase of your project.

    Project Advisor and Review Committee

    In carrying out your research project there are several people who will be available to you for advice and assistance. These include your Department Chairman, the Director of Research, your Project Advisor, your Review Committee, and members of the faculty.

    Project Advisor

    The Project Advisor generally will be a faculty member of this institution or some affiliated institution, and is the person with whom you will work most closely in terms of advice and guidance throughout the project. In most instances you may select the individual who will serve as your Project Advisor.

    Review Committee

    Your Review Committee will consist of a minimum of three persons: the Department Chairman, the Project Advisor, and the Director of Research. Additional qualified persons may be asked to serve on the Review Committee by any of the persons previously mentioned, or by you. Such a request need only be relayed to the Director or Research, who will make the necessary arrangements.

    Hearings

    At least two "research hearings" will be held. A "preliminary hearing" will be held soon after you have established your research design. It is at this time that any questions, confusions, or apprehensions concerning the research, either on the part of the Review Committee or yourself, should be fully aired.

    The "final hearing" will be held after you have completed your research project and after each member of your Review Committee has received a copy of the final version of your research report. If, for any reason, either you or any member of your Review Committee should wish to convene the Committee for an additional hearing, such requests simply may be relayed to the Department Chairman who will make the appropriate arrangements. The recommendations of the Committee are given to the student immediately following the hearing, who is then responsible for implementing these recommendations.