UNC Adams School of Dentistry (GRAD)
Graduate instruction in the UNC Adams School of Dentistry is offered in dental hygiene education, endodontics, operative dentistry and biomaterials, oral epidemiology, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontology, and prosthodontics, as well as in oral and craniofacial biomedicine.
The specialty practice programs — endodontics, operative dentistry and biomaterials, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontology, and prosthodontics — are dual-specialty certificate and master of science degree programs. Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA) and the respective specialty boards for the approved CODA specialties prescribes the minimum requirements for the certificate. The master of science degree is conferred by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Graduate School and requires the successful completion of required coursework, oral or written comprehensive examinations, a research project, and a thesis. Graduates who possess an appropriate degree and who meet the requirements of the UNC Graduate School are considered for admission. Enrollment requires approximately three years of residency. The curricula have been designed to permit maximum flexibility in preparation for practice, teaching, and research, and to meet the educational requirements of the specialty boards.
Other advanced education programs available within the UNC Adams School of Dentistry include dental hygiene education, oral and craniofacial biomedicine, oral epidemiology, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. The oral and craniofacial biomedicine and oral epidemiology programs lead to the doctoral degree (Ph.D.) and require four or more years to complete. The dental hygiene education program spans two years and is a master of science program designed to prepare dental hygienists for teaching, research, or corporate employment. The oral and maxillofacial surgery program is a six-year dual-degree (M.D.) program with a certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Information regarding admission, entrance requirements, and/or curricula of a specific advanced education program may be obtained online.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees for the UNC Graduate School programs are subject to change at any meeting of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Board of Trustees, and an increase should be anticipated each year. Tuition and fees apply for all years of study and training. Current tuition and fees for in-state and nonresidents may be obtained online. Required instruments, books, computers, and laboratory fees are determined by each program. Tuition and fees are due at the time of registration.
Student loans are available on the same basis as for undergraduates. Additional information is available online.
Oral and Craniofacial Biomedicine
Oral and craniofacial biomedicine is a highly translational, multidisciplinary program of study that focuses on the growth, development, and pathologies of the craniofacial complex and associated physiological structures, as well as the study of disease and healing mechanisms related to these structures.
The discipline of oral and craniofacial biomedicine applies and extends the concepts of immunology, embryology, physiology, cellular and molecular biology, pharmacology, microbiology, and biochemistry to understanding the growth and development and pathologies associated with the craniofacial complex and oral cavity. Expertise and authority in the concepts of host-pathogen interactions, skeletal biology and extracellular matrices, and cancer are well represented within the program and by the qualifications of program faculty located in numerous UNC–Chapel Hill programs and departments, including the UNC Adams School of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Center for Cystic Fibrosis, and the Center for AIDS Research.
Attention in dental research and practice is now focusing on the dynamics of oral disease and prevention and treatment at the earliest stages of development, including research on risk factors for disease as well as the cellular and molecular events in disease pathogenesis. Molecular approaches for oral disease analysis and the complexity of disease elements require advanced training in the discipline of oral and craniofacial biomedicine. Modern biomedical research is also identifying systemic relationships between oral conditions, health status, and diseases such as atherosclerosis, HIV, and cancer. The oral cavity also offers an ideal model to study biological structures and cellular mechanisms important throughout the body and important in immune response.
Curricular requirements are based on training areas, with common core requirements for all students. Research interests and qualifications will also determine course requirements. Research is a key element of the program, and students start laboratory rotations during their first semester to allow maximum time for research involvement.
For additional information, consult the UNC Adams School of Dentistry's website or write to the Graduate Program Manager, Oral and Craniofacial Biomedicine Ph.D. Program, UNC Adams School of Dentistry, 3100 First Dental Building, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7455. Telephone: (919) 537-3230.
Research Facilities
The oral and craniofacial biomedicine graduate program is in the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. The central base for much of the basic science research in the curriculum is in the Koury Oral Health Sciences Building, with its access to SEM/TEM microscopy, tissue culture facilities, anaerobic microbiology support, ALAC-accredited animal facilities, computers, and software for image analyses/enhancement and finite element analyses, and a clinical research unit that includes an eight-patient operatory. Biostatistical assistance is readily available as well as medical illustration, photography, radiology, and grants management.
Financial Aid
Graduate research assistantships are awarded competitively for students accepted into the oral and craniofacial biomedicine Ph.D. program. These competitive assistantships with health insurance provide support through program resources during the first year and may include a special tuition rate for out-of-state students. Support for dissertation research, beginning in the student's second year, is generally made available by faculty mentors. Students are eligible for financial aid through the UNC Office of Scholarships and Student Aid. International students are encouraged to contact International Student and Scholar Services for resource contacts if financial aid is needed.
Oral Epidemiology
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a program leading to a Ph.D. degree in epidemiology under the cooperative auspices of the Adams School of Dentistry and the Gillings School of Global Public Health's Department of Epidemiology and Department of Health Policy and Management. The nationally recognized Department of Epidemiology at the Gillings School of Global Public Health has a well-established doctoral program, and oral epidemiology has been taught as part of the program in dental public health for many years. The integration of the wealth of resources in these three departments makes this program unique.
The goal of the oral epidemiology program is to teach students to identify, analyze, and predict changes in oral diseases and conditions. These conditions include dental caries, oral cancer, oral mucosal lesions, periodontal diseases, craniofacial and dentofacial anomalies, and systemic diseases that affect and are affected by oral health. Degree recipients have the academic foundation, advanced knowledge, and skills needed to conduct, interpret, and evaluate sophisticated epidemiologic investigations and clinical research projects.
Information, including advice regarding applying, can be found at the program's website.
Endodontics
The Endodontics program is a three-year program leading to a certificate in endodontics and a master of science degree. The program is designed to prepare candidates for careers in academics, research, or the clinical practice of endodontics, and for certification by the American Board of Endodontics.
The endodontics graduate program involves an integrated study of biological sciences as they pertain to endodontics, development of the clinical skills required in the broad area of the endodontic specialty, review of classic and current literature in endodontics, teaching experience, research design and methodology, and the development and completion of a research project.
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
The oral and maxillofacial pathology program is a three-year program that awards a certificate in oral and maxillofacial pathology and a master of science degree. The program prepares qualified oral and maxillofacial pathology specialists for positions of responsibility in institutions of higher dental education or research or in private practice. Students develop competence in surgical oral pathology, acquire skills in the clinical management of patients with disorders of the head and neck, gain experience in pathology laboratory management, and develop teaching and research skills for enhancement of an academic career. Upon completion of the necessary requirements each student is eligible for fellowship in the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology.
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
The oral and maxillofacial radiology program is a three-year program that awards a certificate in oral and maxillofacial radiology and a Master of Science degree. The primary goal of the program is to prepare specialists to practice clinical oral and maxillofacial radiology; to provide patient care, teach, and conduct research in an oral health care institution; or to provide patient care in the private practice setting.
The program includes training in radiological sciences (radiological physics, radiation biology, radiation protection, imaging science), clinical sciences (intraoral, extraoral, and cone beam CT imaging; radiographic interpretation of conditions affecting the oral and maxillofacial region), medical sciences (oral and maxillofacial pathology, head and neck anatomy), and research sciences (research design and biostatistics). Each graduate student develops an original research project as an integral part of the graduate program. The program meets the eligibility requirements of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.
Operative Dentistry and Biomaterials
The operative dentistry and biomaterials program is a three-year program that awards a certificate in operative dentistry and a master of science degree. The primary goal of the program is to prepare graduates for careers in dental education and research. The program involves component areas of research, teaching, and patient care. The curriculum includes general core courses, including topics in basic and clinical sciences; a research component, including courses on research design and statistical methods; a clinical component in contemporary operative dentistry; and experiences in preclinical and clinical teaching. Each graduate student develops an original research project as an integral part of the graduate program.
Orthodontics
The orthodontic program provides a combination of clinical experience in orthodontics and critical thinking and research experience, which leads to a certificate in orthodontics and a master of science degree conferred by the UNC Graduate School. Students in the orthodontic program are required to demonstrate clinical and professional proficiency as well as to complete the didactic and research components of the degree prior to graduating. During the program's first year students participate in core courses, attend didactic and clinical seminars, and begin patient care. As the program progresses, didactic seminars gradually yield to research participation, while clinical seminars continue, and the volume of patient care increases. All students must perform satisfactorily on oral and written comprehensive examinations to complete the program successfully.
The orthodontics program offers a 33-month curriculum. Six residents are admitted to begin the program each August. By the second or third year of the program, students are educationally qualified to take the written portion of the American Board of Orthodontics. Successful completion of a research project is required to earn a certificate in orthodontics as well as a master of science degree.
Pediatric Dentistry
The graduate program in pediatric dentistry leads to a clinical certificate in pediatric dentistry and a master of science, master of public health, or Ph.D. degree awarded by the UNC Graduate School. The minimum program length is 36 months, beginning on July 1 of each year. The program's goal is to prepare the student for a career in academic research, dental education, clinical practice, or public health. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership skills and training advocates for children's health. For interested students, this program can be combined with other educational programs in the social sciences, basic sciences, or allied health professions that lead to an additional master's degree, postdoctoral fellowship, or a doctoral degree.
During the first year each student completes courses in research design and statistics; a protocol for the research project is completed in conjunction with the coursework. This project develops a student’s skill set in the scientific method and scientific writing. During the second year data are collected, and during the third year the thesis is written and defended. Under the direction of leaders in many fields, research opportunities are available in a range of topics and can be undertaken in the UNC Adams School of Dentistry, at a facility in nearby Research Triangle Park, or at any of several neighboring institutions of higher learning. Numerous projects have received national acclaim and garnered publication in dental literature. Hospital training is conducted through UNC Health. Graduate students are active members of the program's teaching team during all years. Development of leadership skills in the health profession is supported by externships at the local, state, and national levels. The program meets the eligibility requirements of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Periodontology
The periodontology program is designed to prepare dentists to enter the clinical practice of periodontics or to work in academics and research. The program consists of a 36-month course of study leading to a certificate in periodontics and a master of science degree conferred by the UNC Graduate School. Alternative degree programs include a master of public health and a Ph.D. in oral and craniofacial biomedicine. The curriculum is devoted to the study of biological concepts and literature that encompass the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes, and the maintenance of the health, function, and esthetics of these structures and tissues. Clinical acquisition of skills in periodontology and implantology is a primary focus of the program. Resident experiences include patient care, teaching, and research. Elective courses relating to areas of research interests are available. The program meets the eligibility requirements of the American Board of Periodontology.
Prosthodontics
The prosthodontics program is a 36-month course of study in fixed and removable prosthodontics, dental implant prosthodontics, and maxillofacial prosthetics, leading to a certificate in prosthodontics and a master of science degree conferred by the UNC Graduate School. The primary goals of the program are to prepare a student for clinical practice and/or a teaching and research career. The curriculum offers a broad educational experience in clinical, research, didactic, and teaching activities. The program satisfies the formal training requirements for certification by the American Board of Prosthodontics.
Dental Hygiene Education
The primary objective of the dental hygiene education program is to prepare exceptional educators for allied dental education programs. Objectives of the graduate program are to provide the student with advanced knowledge in dental hygiene education to assume positions in teaching, administration, research, and management. The curriculum emphasizes advanced knowledge and skill development in several areas including education, leadership, administration, public health, interprofessional education, and research related to allied dental education and practice. The curriculum is interdisciplinary in that courses are taken in the Adams School of Dentistry, Gillings School of Global Public Health, School of Nursing, and School of Education. Upon the successful completion of this program, the student should have
- Acquired advanced knowledge and skills in one of the following tracks: interprofessional education, public health, dental management/administration, biological sciences, oral pathology, or clinical education
- Developed the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary in the conduct of dental hygiene programs
- Acquired the ability to teach courses in more than one dental hygiene field, and
- Defined their own problems from the present body of knowledge in dental and dental hygiene education, solved those problems, and presented their work in a scholarly fashion
Course requirements vary and are based on the individual background of the student and on the track selected by the student. Available tracks include interprofessionsal education, public health, clinical education, dental management/administration, biological sciences, and oral pathology. Thirty-six credit hours are required for the master of science degree. The length of the program is approximately two years.
Admissions
Oral and Craniofacial Biomedicine
There are two pathways for admission to the Curriculum in Oral and Craniofacial Biomedicine:
- Direct application to oral and craniofacial biomedicine for individuals (domestic or international) with a doctoral or biomedical professional degree, including doctor of dental surgery (D.D.S.), doctor of dental medicine (D.M.D.), doctor of medicine (M.D.) or equivalent, should apply directly to the program through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website.
- Application through the Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program for individuals (domestic or international) without an advanced professional biomedical degree must apply through the Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program (BBSP).
Endodontics
Application to the endodontics program requires submission of the required transcripts and documentation to the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following year’s class can be found on the PASS website. A personal interview is required for admission. After review by the program, successful applicants will be recommended to the UNC Graduate School. Admission to the UNC Graduate School is granted only after the department reviews and approves the application, transcripts, or prior academic work, letters of reference, and other credentials. The number of admitted students is limited to three each year. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
Applications for admission to the program should be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. As part of the UNC Graduate School application, applicants must upload a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose which outlines motivations, experience and professional goals. National Dental Board Scores should be uploaded as a supplement document if available. Applicants must also upload unofficial transcripts. Official transcripts should not be sent to the program or the UNC Graduate School until requested to do so. Applicants must possess a D.D.S., D.M.D., or equivalent degree. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
Applications for admission to the program should be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. As part of the UNC Graduate School application, applicants must upload a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose which outlines motivations, experience and professional goals. National Dental Board Scores should be uploaded as a supplement document if available. Applicants must also upload unofficial transcripts. Official transcripts should not be sent to the program or the UNC Graduate School until requested to do so. Applicants must possess a D.D.S., D.M.D., or equivalent degree. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Operative Dentistry and Biomaterials
Application to the operative dentistry and biomaterials program requires submission of the required transcripts and documentation to the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following year’s class can be found on the PASS website. A personal interview is required for admission. After review by the program, successful applicants will be recommended to the UNC Graduate School. Applications for admission to the program should be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. Admission to the UNC Graduate School is granted only after the department reviews and approves the application, transcripts, or prior academic work, letters of reference, and other credentials. The number of admitted students is limited to three each year. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Orthodontics
Application to the orthodontics program requires submission of the required transcripts and documentation to the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following fall class are available on the PASS website. All candidates must register with the Postdoctoral Dental Matching program. A personal, on-site interview is required for admission, and interviews are made by invitation of the program after its review of applications. Interviews are usually held in late October or early November. Once a student has been accepted through the Matching program, the student must apply to the UNC Graduate School to complete the requisite courses to earn a master's degree. Applications for admission to the UNC Graduate School must be submitted online through The Graduate School's admissions website. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Pediatric Dentistry
The pediatric dentistry program requires application through both the centralized application and matching services: Submission of the required transcripts and documentation is made to the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following summer class are available on the PASS website. All candidates must register with the Postdoctoral Dental Matching program. A personal interview is required, and interviews are made by invitation of the department after applications have been reviewed. Once a student has been accepted through the Match program, the student must apply to the UNC Graduate School. Applications for admission to the UNC Graduate School must be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Periodontology
All applications for the periodontology program, as well as transcripts and letters of reference, should be submitted through the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following summer cohort are available on the PASS website. All candidates must register with the Postdoctoral Dental Matching program. A personal interview is required for admission. Once a student has been accepted through the Match program, applicants will be informed of their eligibility to apply to the UNC Graduate School. Admission to the UNC Graduate School is granted only after the department reviews and approves the application, transcripts of prior academic work, letters of reference, and other credentials. Applications for admission to the UNC Graduate School must be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. The number of students is limited to three each year. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Prosthodontics
All applications for the prosthodontics program, as well as transcripts and letters of reference, should be submitted through the Postdoctoral Application Support Service (PASS). Application deadlines to PASS for the following summer cohort are available on the PASS website. All candidates must register with the Postdoctoral Dental Matching program. A personal interview is required for admission. Once a student has been accepted through the Match program, the admission policy for the master of science in prosthodontics program follows the regular requirements for admission to the UNC Graduate School. Admission to the UNC Graduate School is granted only after the application, transcript of prior academic work, letters of reference, and other credentials are reviewed and approved by the program’s admissions committee. Applications for admission to the UNC Graduate School must be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Dental Hygiene Education
Minimum admissions requirements for the program in dental hygiene education include current licensure, a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, and graduation from a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Exceptions to this requirement include graduation from an international Bachelor of Science program in dental hygiene, where CODA accreditation is not possible. Previous work experience in dental hygiene education or dental hygiene practice is strongly recommended.
Applicants must have a grade point average of B or better in the professional undergraduate curriculum. Three letters of recommendation are required, as well as an admissions questionnaire by the applicant. The course of study begins in August of each year. Applications for admission to the UNC Graduate School must be submitted online through the UNC Graduate School's admissions website. Stipends are available, depending upon available resources.
Lilian Berridi-Garcia, Prosthodontics
George H. Blakey, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Jennifer Brame, Dental Hygiene
Zachary Brian, Pediatric Dentistry
Angela Broome, Oral Radiology
Scott Cashion, Pediatric Dentistry
Li Chen, Oral Radiology
Wendy Clark, Prosthodontics
Apoena De Aguiar Ribeiro, Oral Microbiology
Kimon Divaris, Pediatric Dentistry
Roxanne Dsouza, Dental Hygiene
Ibrahim Duqum, Prosthodontics
Eric Everett, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Roger Fernandes Moreira, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Bruce Gitter, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Christina Graves, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Savita Gupta, Generalists
Janet Guthmiller, Dean
Carol Haggerty, Generalists
Jennifer Harmon, Dental Hygiene
John Hooker, Generalists
Laura Jacox, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Brandon Johnson, Oral Radiology
Katherine Jowers, Comprehensive Oral Health
Jack King, Generalists
Takashi Komabayashi, Endodontics
Jean Kontos Ginnis, Pediatric Dentistry
Jessica Lee, Pediatric Dentistry
Sarah Liebkemann, Dental Hygiene
Adam Lietzen, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Pei Feng Lim, Oral Pain
Si On Lim, Geriatrics Special Care
Joshua Little, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Julie Marchesan, Periodontology
Lauren McKay, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Patricia Miguez, Periodontology
Kelly Mitchell, Orthodontics
Shannon Mitchell, Dental Hygiene
Kent Moberly, Generalists
Andre Mol, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
Antonio Moretti, Periodontology
Valerie Murrah, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
Marta Musskopf, Generalists
Samuel Nesbit, Comprehensive Oral Health
Tung Nguyen, Orthodontics
Gustavo Oliveira, Operative Dentistry
Lauren Patton, Oral Medicine
Ceib Phillips, Associate Dean for Advanced Education, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Keith Phillips, Generalists
Rocio Quinonez, Pediatric Dentistry
Glenn Reside, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Luis Rueda, Prosthodontics
Lattice Sams, Dental Hygiene
Allen Samuelson, Geriatrics Special Care
Anne Sanders, Public Health
Stephanie Swords Schaaf, Generalists
Luis Schlichting, Operative Dentistry
Miguel Simancas Pallares, Pediatric Dentistry
Gary Slade, Oral Epidemiology
Lisa Stoner, Prosthodontics
Ronald P. Strauss, Medical Sociology and Health Promotion/Disease Prevention
Taiseer Sulaiman, Operative Dentistry
Cristiano Susin, Periodontology
Edward J. Swift, Vice Dean for Education, Operative Dentistry
Inna Tchivileva, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Lance Thurlow, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Timothy Turvey, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Donald A. Tyndall, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
Dilek Uyan, Generalists
Bert Vasconcellos, Operative Dentistry
Jane Weintraub, Pediatric Dentistry
Raymond White Jr., Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Tiffanie White, Dental Hygiene
Rebecca Wilder, Dental Hygiene
Di Wu, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
Mitsuo Yamauchi, Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences
David Zajac, Craniofacial Disorders
Information Relevant to the UNC Adams School of Dentistry Experience
Immunization Requirements
The State of North Carolina immunization requirements and the UNC Adams School of Dentistry immunization requirements for dental hygiene and doctor of dental surgery students are listed below. Documentation of all is required with application.
State Requirements
- Three DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), Td (tetanus, diphtheria), or Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) doses. (This fulfills the primary series requirement.)
- One Tdap booster after completion of the primary series that did not include a Tdap, and then a Td vaccine every 10 years thereafter.
- Three polio (unless greater than 18 years of age).
- Two measles (rubeola), two mumps, one rubella (two MMR doses meet this requirement) or positive titers.
- COVID-19 vaccination series, including prior boosters, or intent to request a medical or religious exemption.
- Hepatitis B series (not required for individuals born before July 1, 1994). See school requirements below.
UNC Adams School of Dentistry Requirements
- Varicella vaccination series (two shots) or a positive titer.
- Hepatitis B vaccination series (2- or 3-shot series) and a positive hepatitis B antibody (HBsAb) quantitative titer. (Please make sure your physician does not order a qualitative titer.) Ideally, a titer is recommended one to two months after completion of the series for proof of immunity to hepatitis B but can be checked at a later date.
- Two-step tuberculosis skin test (TST) or a TB blood test (IGRA). DDS and DH students report to Campus Health and follow the testing procedures required. Advanced Dental Education students report to Employee Health and follow the testing procedures required.
The matriculating student is required to submit an official certificate of immunizations that is signed by an authorized healthcare provider. Immunization documentation is to be submitted to both UNC Campus Health Services (CHS) and to the UNC Adams School of Dentistry through eMedley and Connect Carolina by a published and specified date. CHS will notify students who are not in compliance with the state immunization requirements noted above. Individuals who have not met the state immunization requirements after 30 calendar days from the first date of attendance will be administratively withdrawn from the University by the University Registrar. See the UNC Campus Health website.
Students with deficiencies in the additional immunization requirements of the school will be notified of the deficiencies by the UNC school's director of clinical compliance. The school will work with students to meet these additional requirements. The failure to comply with the school’s requirements after consultation with the director of clinical compliance and the agreed-upon resolution schedule will result in administrative withdrawal from the school.
Additional Requirements
Annually:
- Influenza vaccine not earlier than September 1.
- Verification of health insurance. UNC–Chapel Hill requires all eligible students to have health insurance (see the UNC Campus Health Student Health Insurance website.) Students are required to waive with existing creditable insurance each semester or they will automatically be enrolled in the UNC System Student Health Insurance Plan, which is administered by Student Blue/BCBS of NC. To waive or enroll/renew, visit the Student Blue website.
Biennially:
- American Heart Association certified CPR for Healthcare Providers training. Documentation of current certification is required of the matriculating student and is to be submitted through eKeeper. (Note that the school requires in-person CPR skills assessment.)
Infection Control: One of the consequences of the delivery of health care is the possibility of contracting an infectious disease such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, HIV, or herpes. To minimize this risk, the school has adopted an Infection Control Policy that requires the wearing of a clinical overgarment, disposable gloves, a mask, and protective eye covering when oral examinations and dental procedures are being performed. NOTE: COVID-19 has adjusted these requirements and additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may be required.
Infectious Disease Status
Students engaged in patient care activities are required to know their tuberculosis and hepatitis B (HBV) status, and are encouraged to learn their hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV status. State regulations require health care workers, including students, who perform surgical or dental procedures or who assist in such procedures in a way that may result in an exposure of patients to their blood, and who know themselves to be infected with HIV or HBV, to report their status to the state health director. See UNC's policy.
Late Registration
University regulations require students who do not register before the first day of classes in any semester or summer session to pay an additional fee of $20 for delayed registration. Any student who believes that she/he can show sufficient justification for the delay may petition for a refund by completing a form, which can be found online, and outlining the reason for delay. This form must bear the approval of the dean of the UNC Adams School of Dentistry.
Awarding of Degrees and Certificates
To be awarded a degree or certificate, students must satisfactorily complete all requirements of their respective program.
Class and Clinic Attendance
Regular class and clinic attendance is a student obligation. No right or privilege exists that permits a student to be absent from any given number of sessions.
Patient Care Responsibilities
Students are granted the privilege of participating in the patient care system of the UNC Adams School of Dentistry and are expected to provide care consistent with our person-centered philosophy. Patients are a central part of the health care team and are involved in the planning of their care. It is the responsibility of the dental student to provide patients with the information needed so they make informed decisions about their treatment. The dental student has the responsibility to provide high-quality, evidence-based care to all their assigned patients in a timely manner and to uphold the ethical responsibilities as outlined in the school's Code of Professional Conduct and its Technical Standards.
Current academic policies and procedures can be found online. However, policies are subject to change at any time. The manual provides guidelines for governing the UNC Adams School of Dentistry educational programs and advises students, faculty, and staff of academic policies and procedures related to the respective programs.
Subjects in this school include DENG, DHED, ENDO, OCBM, ORPA, OPER, ORAD, ORTH, PEDO, PERI, and PROS.
DENG
Graduate-level Courses
Introduction to scientific methodology, clinical epidemiology, oral biology and technology transfer, clinical trials, evaluation of scientific literature, experiments of nature, animal models for oral research, ethnics in research, laboratory simulations and research models, and proposal writing.
Introduction of biostatistical concepts, sampling, descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, comparisons of means and proportions, 2x2 and r x c tables, correlation and simple regression, sample size and power, analysis of variance, factorial anova, multiple regression, and nonparametric tests.
For first & second-year dental graduate students. Review and discussion of the diagnoses, treatment plans, prognoses, and interdisciplinary care of selected patients.
Review of the anatomy of the head and neck region, including osteology, cardiovascular system, head and neck embryology, special sensory modalities, nervous system, functional nervous system, and extraoral correlation with the oral cavity.
Observer / assist Faculty and Residents in the Graduate Clinic.
This course is designed for dental practitioners with sufficient general and specific clinical pharmacology knowledge to appropriately and safely utilize drugs in treatment. The course will be concentrated in three areas: general clinical pharmacology principles, general clinical pharmacology of medications, specific clinical pharmacology of drugs utilized by dental practitioners.
Introduction to: operating room and recovery room protocol; patient cardiovascular and pulmonary evaluation; adjunct and inhalant agents; nitrous oxide; pharmacology of IV anesthetic agents; EKG interpretation; arterial blood gases; anesthesia equipment monitoring; anesthetic complications and emergencies; fluid and electrolyte and blood therapy; airway management; venipuncture; pediatric anesthesia; and pre-op evaluation, orders, and rounds.
During this course, student complete required clinical training in the program and the School of Dentistry, attend a library orientation, and are introduced to research procedures and requirements.
This course provides learners with the knowledge and skills to function as a dental educator. Emphasis will be placed on introduction to didactic teaching and clinical instruction. There will be a focus on best practices in clinical teaching that includes psychological safety, the science of learning, learning objectives, course design, psychomotor skill development, providing effective feedback, and evaluation. The course will include a blended classroom discussion with live and online activities.
This course will cover foundational topics or dental specialty content tailored to the certificate or master students clinical area of interest.
The goal of this course is to provide certificate or master students an opportunity to investigate different research areas and to conduct an independent research project under a faculty mentor.
DHED
Graduate-level Courses
This course reviews and updates students in current treatment and diagnostic modalities in dental allied education. Students who satisfactorily pass the evaluation will be exempt.
This course is designed to introduce the graduate student to various teaching philosophies and methodologies. A variety of educational concepts such as methods of presentation, testing, and measurement are explored. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of theory.
Provides information and experience in leadership, administration, and accreditation for allied dental education programs.
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to function as a competent clinical instructor. Psychomotor skill development and analysis and remediation of performance problems are two topics related to clinical teaching that are stressed.
This course is designed to provide knowledge and stimulate discussion about pertinent topics in dental and allied dental education and research.
This full semester internship provides the student with the opportunity to student teach in an allied dental program.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
ENDO
Graduate-level Courses
870 hours of clinical practice
180 hours conference.
270 hours.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
OCBM
Graduate-level Courses
The course familiarizes participants with a selection of specialized research techniques employed in interdisciplinary basic science approaches to problems in oral & craniofacial biomedicine. Four laboratory hours a week. Permission of the instructor.
A series of seminars on topics relevant to research and scientific knowledge in the field of oral & craniofacial biomedicine. Visiting scientists from other research centers in the country and abroad participate in the discussion series. One lecture hour a week. Permission of the instructor.
Topics include extracellular matrices, immunology, inflammation, neurobiology, and pain management.
Topics include extracellular matrices, immunology, inflammation, neurobiology, and pain management.
Topics include extracellular matrices, immunology, inflammation, neurobiology, and pain management.
Topics include extracellular matrices, immunology, inflammation, neurobiology, and pain management.
Overview of structures and biological determinants of conditions and diseases of the oral cavity. Both growth and development and pathophysiology will be introduced in the context of three areas of oral biology: biology of extracellular matrices, host-pathogens interactions, and orofacial neurobiology.
Overview of structures and biological determinants of conditions and diseases of the oral cavity. Both growth and development and pathophysiology will be introduced in the context of three areas of oral biology: biology of extracellular matrices, host-pathogens interactions, and orofacial neurobiology.
Overview of structures and biological determinants of conditions and diseases of the oral cavity. Both growth and development and pathophysiology will be introduced in the context of three areas of oral biology: biology of extracellular matrices, host-pathogens interactions, and orofacial neurobiology.
This is a clinician-taught course that advances students' understanding of chronic pain (e.g., head/face pain, pelvic pain, back pain, cancer pain, surgical pain) in both the classroom and the clinic.
This course will examine bone formation and bone homeostasis. Cellular and molecular determinants of osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, bone remodeling, and select examples of bone disease will be explored. Course format will be faculty lecture, group discussion, and assigned student presentation of current literature.
Review of current findings in selected areas of oral & craniofacial biomedicine. Students will critique current literature dealing with the newest discoveries in neuroscience, inflammation, or pathogenesis in an interactive forum between students and faculty.
Seminar series that will give generic instructions covering grant writing skills and structure, as well as offer insight for scientific writing.
Permission of the instructor.
Doctoral Research and Dissertation. Permission of the instructor.
ORPA
Graduate-level Courses
This weekly seminar uses unknown cases as the basis for discussion of a variety of biopsy specimens taken from the head and neck. Clinical management of cases also is discussed. Students will develop skills for interacting with their medical and dental colleagues.
This seminar series will focus on current research in oral and maxillofacial pathology (OMP) and related fields. Current scientific literature will be critically reviewed. In addition, students will review historical literature to gain a perspective on the development of OMP as a specialty.
This lecture and clinicopathologic correlation series includes study of the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical, and histopathologic aspects of diseases of the head and neck.
Under the supervision of the hospital pathologists, the student will rotate in anatomic pathology, laboratory medicine, dermatopathology, hematopathology, molecular medicine, surgical specialties, and other elective areas to develop advanced concepts of disease as well as a working relationship with medical colleagues.
Course includes developmental disturbances of soft and hard tissues, syndromes, inflammation, immunology, pulp and periapical disease, periodontal disease, tumor-like proliferations, microbial disease, endocrine and metabolic diseases. Also includes odontogenic cysts, salivary gland disease, oral epithelial and mesenchymal neoplasms, bone and joint diseases, nerve muscle diseases, dermatological diseases, and blood diseases.
Continuation of ORPA 762.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
OPER
Graduate-level Courses
(Aesthetic and Adhesive Dentistry.) In this seminar, graduate students will learn the scientific principles and clinical techniques involved in dental aesthetics and adhesive restorations. Students may be required to develop a case presentation for this seminar.
This is a weekly seminar offering a forum for presentation and discussion of relevant scientific papers on various operative dentistry related topics. Typically, a resident or faculty member presents one or more relevant papers, which is followed by a critical analysis of the study and discussion of the topic.
This seminar will involve a series of presentations where the student will present clinical cases resolved in the graduate clinic.
Discusses specific topics related to Cariology. Students will provide care in clinic identifying and treating patients based on caries risk assessment. Seminar formats include lectures, discussions, literature reviews, and practical (hands-on) exercises. Students must present a clinical case discussing alternative treatment based on patient's caries risk assessment.
Provides students with broad introduction to key Operative Dentistry concepts. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of topics, including intensive training in direct restorations, dental photography, fabrication of diagnostic casts and implant stents. Prepares incoming graduate students for clinical patient care and teaching in predoctoral courses and clinics.
(Patient treatment.) Primary focus is on patients requiring more advanced considerations for operative dentistry treatment planning and/or procedures. There will be a strong focus on aesthetic dentistry, prevention, and 'medical management' of caries, and the use of advanced technologies to provide operative dentistry treatment.
This course involves application of the principles of in-vitro testing of dental materials. Students will be required to prepare, subject them to specified testing, and collect data.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
ORAD
Graduate-level Courses
Seminars, laboratory, and clinical sessions to provide experience in advanced oral radiologic procedures.
Literature review, seminars, and clinical experience in advanced radiologic diagnosis.
Literature review and seminars in the application of radiologic procedures such as computed tomography, digital imaging, and magnetic resonance for diagnosis of oral and maxillofacial conditions. Fundamentals of radiation therapy are also included.
Radiographic selection criteria, dental radiographs efficacy, panoramic radiology, extraoral techniques, radiation risks and radiological hygiene in dental practice, principle of radiologic interpretation, radiology of cysts and tumors, radiology of the TMJ, radiology of systemic disease, quality improvement, radiology for dental implants, digital imaging in dentistry, and advanced craniofacial region imaging.
Course is designed for graduate students with a strong interest in OMFR and seeks to expose students to classical articles in the radiology literature.
Case studies in the interpretation of unusual conditions of the oral and maxillofacial region.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
ORTH
Graduate-level Courses
Introduction to orthodontic technique and procedures for beginning orthodontic graduate students.
Seminars on pertinent orthodontic literature for advanced orthodontic students.
Principles of orthodontic diagnosis and analysis of diagnostic records for orthodontic specialists.
Clinical Orthodontics
Mechanical principles in orthodontic force production and control; biological response to orthodontic force.
Introduction to orthodontic biomaterials and integration with the basic principles of engineering, science, and orthodontics.
Principles of growth and development, emphasizing dento-facial development from an evolutionary and molecular biology perspective, as well as the traditional anatomical perspective.
Preventative orthodontics.
This course introduces the graduate student to the management of patients with craniofacial anomalies using a multidisciplinary team approach. The course gives the graduate student a basic understanding of the role of specialties involved, the procedures, and timing of interventions in the management of craniofacial patients from birth to adulthood.
Maturation of oral and pharyngeal function, including speech and its relation to dento-facial development.
Concepts in orthodontic mechanics emphasizing segmented arch approaches and laboratory tests of appliance components and designs.
Trends in health care delivery; organization and management of orthodontic specialty practice.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
PEDO
Graduate-level Courses
(One hour a week for each fall and spring semester.) This is a seminar series that focuses on a broad range of topics related to pediatric dentistry and pediatric medicine, including general medical issues, practice management, social issues, child advocacy, and presentation of unusual clinical cases.
(One hour a week each fall and spring semester for two years.) This course is a seminar wherein diagnosis and treatment planning options are considered through a problem-oriented approach. For cases in progress and completed, outcomes are reviewed and critiqued.
(Six hours a month for fall and spring semesters for 24 months.) This seminar covers the fundamentals of pediatric dentistry from behavior management to pulp therapy. The course relies on readings of classic and contemporary literature with seminars that include discussions and critiques of readings.
This course provides clinical experience in all phases of pediatric dentistry, including dental treatment under conscious sedation and general anesthesia.
(One hour monthly during the spring semester for three years.) This course provides an understanding of the design, implementation, and management of a modern pediatric dental practice. Most seminar leaders are private practitioners who are adjunct faculty in the department.
(One hour a week each week for 36 months.) This seminar series serves as a faculty/resident forum for reviewing the previous week's emergency cases and in which diagnosis and treatment options are reviewed and critiqued. Endodontic faculty and residents also participate in this course.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and publication is a requirement for an MS degree.
PERI
Graduate-level Courses
This graduate seminar reviews techniques and procedures for treating periodontal diseases. Topics include gingival grafting, surgical flap management, osseous surgery, periodontal regeneration, antimicrobials, host modulation, and periodontal medicine.
This graduate seminar continues themes introduced in PERI 720 and discusses advanced implant topics including bone augmentation, peri-implantitis, and implant efficacy assessment. The seminar includes didactic lectures, case presentations, and journal club components. Spring.
In this first-year literature review course, graduate students present and evaluate the evidence on periodontal disease etiology, pathogenesis, risk factors and treatments including mechanical, surgical, and pharmacological approaches.
In this second- and third-year literature review course, graduate students discuss evidence on advanced topics in periodontology or related disciplines.
This graduate seminar continues themes introduced in PERI 820 and discusses advanced implant topics including bone augmentation, peri-implantitis, and implant efficacy assessment. The seminar includes didactic lectures, case presentations, and journal club components.
Within this specialty clinic, graduate students gain experience and competency in diagnosing and comprehensively treating patients with periodontal diseases. Cases may involve interdisciplinary care, medical management, dental implants, and sedation procedures.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and publication is a requirement for an MS degree.
PROS
Graduate-level Courses
A seminar designed to review early and classic prosthodontic literature common to fixed and removable prosthodontics.
Principles of diagnosis and treatment relative to the prosthodontic patient are covered in depth in this seminar series.
This course provides the prosthodontic student with adequate knowledge in fixed prosthodontics to promote continued lifelong learning, offer quality treatment to a diverse population with various needs using fixed prosthesis, manage complications and failures of fixed prostheses, and to challenge the ABP examination.
Principles of diagnosis and treatment relative to maxillofacial prosthodontic patients are covered in depth in this seminar series.
Principles of diagnosis and treatment relative to maxillofacial prosthodontic patients are covered in depth in this seminar series.
This clinical offering is designed to permit the graduate student to experience all phases of advanced patient management in fixed and removable prosthodontics.
This clinical offering is designed to permit the graduate student to experience all phases of advanced patient management in fixed and removable prosthodontics.
This clinical offering is designed to permit the graduate student to manage the comprehensive prosthodontic care of congenital and/or acquired maxillofacial defects in both the dental school and hospital environment.
This clinical offering is designed to permit the graduate student to manage the comprehensive prosthodontic care of congenital and/or acquired maxillofacial defects in both the dental school and hospital environment.
Individual research under the direction of a mentor with the intention of publication. Completion of a manuscript and submission is a requirement for an MS degree.
UNC Adams School of Dentistry
385 South Columbia St., CB #7450, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7450
Contact: 919-537-3230
