Preceptorship Program in Periodontics

University of California, Los Angeles

The Periodontics Preceptorship seeks to provide advanced education in periodontics for an improved understanding of periodontology and surgical implantology. Designed for foreign-trained dentists, this program teaches preceptors the knowledge and skills necessary for comprehensive evaluation and treatment of patients with a variety of periodontal diseases and conditions.

A series of seminars and lecture courses are available each quarter. The preceptor can discuss with the program director his/her educational interests and needs and an effort will be made to prepare a program that meets those needs.

Topics include advanced implant dentistry, oral radiology, applied pharmacology, sedation procedures, implant treatment planning, periodontal microbiology, literature review, patient management, periodontal clinical techniques, and the nutrition and pathogenesis of periodontal disease.

Clinical practice will be limited to observation and chair-side assistance at pre-surgical and surgical procedures. Two clinically active faculty members are available during each clinic session while six residents are treating patients. As a result, preceptors get excellent faculty coverage, and they are exposed to a variety of treatment philosophies by periodontists who have diverse experiences. The preservation of periodontal supporting structures as well as the regeneration or reconstruction of lost periodontal/alveolar structures are emphasized. Treatment plans are coordinated with other dental specialties as indicated by the individual patient’s needs. Patient management skills are stressed, and preceptors are encouraged to consider all aspects of care with a biological and scientifically-based rationale.