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UW School of Dentistry

Department of Orthodontics

Welcome to the Department of Orthodontics – where beautiful smiles are created. The Department is well known for its outstanding graduate program, and for training many US and international clinicians, academicians, and leaders in the profession. It is also known for conducting significant and timely research on important orthodontic and other health-related topics.

The mission of the Department is to train both pre-doctoral dental students and graduate students to be proficient in the clinical specialty of orthodontics, at their respective levels. The pre-doctoral orthodontic experience includes various didactic and laboratory courses, as well as some opportunities to gain clinical experience. The graduate program consists of intensive didactic, clinical, and research components. Each year, 5 students who have completed their dental degree are selected to enroll in our 33-month graduate program, after which they earn a Certificate in the specialty of orthodontics, as well as a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD). An evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment planning is emphasized throughout the program, as are the highest ethical standards.

The Department consists of a talented and experienced group of faculty who have dedicated their careers to the orthodontic profession. These faculty are supported by an excellent and caring administrative and clinical staff. Our students come from all over the world, and provide an infusion of energy and new ideas every year.

To all of you who visit us – as a patient, parent, student, or colleague – we look forward to a positive and enriching experience.

Inclement Weather

If you have an appointment at either our Graduate or Faculty Orthodontics Clinic and there is snow or other inclement weather, please call the clinic before departing for your appointment at 206.543.5787. It may be necessary to reschedule your appointment if normal clinic operations have been impacted by weather. Please Note: If the UW suspends operations, then the Graduate and Faculty Orthodontics clinics will be closed.