UMD Dental School is a leading dental institution serving the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and beyond. As part of the University of Maryland, the school combines academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and community-focused care to train the next generation of oral health professionals.
The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and innovation in patient care. Students and faculty work in modern facilities while engaging with diverse populations to build skills that translate directly into real-world impact.
| Program | Duration | Key Focus | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) | 4 years | Clinical skills, research, public service | ADA CODA |
| Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) | 1 year | Comprehensive care, interdisciplinary practice | ADA CODA |
| Orthodontics Program | 2–3 years | Specialized orthodontics, craniofacial biology | ADA CODA |
| Periodontics Program | 3 years | Implant dentistry, regenerative techniques | ADA CODA |
Academic Curriculum and Clinical Training
Core Didactic and Hands-On Learning
The curriculum integrates biomedical sciences, clinical decision-making, and patient communication. Early simulation training transitions into treating patients under expert supervision in affiliated clinics.
Interprofessional Education
Students collaborate with medical, pharmacy, and public health peers to address complex health issues. These experiences highlight the role of oral health in overall systemic well-being.
Research and Innovation
Biomedical and Health Services Research
Faculty and students contribute to research on caries prevention, periodontal disease, and digital dentistry. The school partners with federal agencies and industry to advance science and translate findings into practice.
Community Engagement and Public Service
Outreach and Access Initiatives
Through mobile clinics and partnerships with community organizations, the school expands access to care for underserved populations. Students develop cultural competence while meeting critical local needs.
Pathways to Leadership and Impact
- Complete a rigorous, ADA-accredited dental curriculum with integrated clinical training.
- Engage in research and quality improvement projects to advance oral health science.
- Participate in interprofessional education to improve team-based care.
- Contribute to community outreach to expand access and build cultural competence.
- Pursue specialty training to focus on orthodontics, periodontics, or other advanced areas.
FAQ
Reader questions
What programs does UMD Dental School offer?
The school offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency, and specialty programs in orthodontics and periodontics, all accredited by the ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation.
How long does it take to complete the DDS program?
The DDS program typically requires four years of full-time study, combining didactic coursework, laboratory training, and supervised clinical care.
Are there opportunities for research during the DDS program?
Yes, students can participate in research projects, often collaborating with faculty on topics such as biomaterials, oral microbiology, and health services research.
What clinical settings do students treat patients in?
Students treat patients primarily in the school’s affiliated clinics, which include general dental practices and specialty clinics, providing care in a structured learning environment.