To have a thorough acquaintance of the literature and research methodology. Learning a variety of orthodontic modalities, residents treat pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients. Orthognathic surgical patients and patients with temporomandibular dysfunction are treated as well. The principal clinical method used in the Orthodontic Program, the Combination Technique, combines the early stages of the lightwire system with final control and finishing by edgewise appliances. Residents also receive didactic and clinical instruction in standard and straightwire edgewise systems.
Orthodontic residents follow most of their patients through the entire course of treatment.
They also participate in multiple conferences devoted to the analysis and diagnosis of new cases and further evaluation of patients who are already being treated. To broaden their knowledge and keep abreast of new directions in the field, residents regularly review and discuss classical and current literature, as well as recent advances in orthodontics. Residents also take basic science and related courses with other postdoctoral students in the Division of Advanced Dental Education at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine . An affiliation with the internationally recognized Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic enhances the overall learning experience. The program gives third year residents the opportunity to make independent treatment decisions.