Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Curriculum

During the program, preceptors take full advantage of the educational opportunities offered to UCLA oral and maxillofacial surgery residents. Preceptors attend all weekly conferences, seminars, and other lectures, which are generally offered in the mornings and evenings. During the day, preceptors are indirectly involved in patient care offered by the residents and faculty.

Preceptors can observe and assist with limited chair-side assisting duties in the oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic and operating rooms at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center; however, direct patient care is not permitted.

A considerable component of training is devoted to the presentation of clinically oriented basic scientific material. The scientific background of oral and maxillofacial surgical practice is emphasized in seminars, lectures, and conferences. Specific lecture courses, such as head and neck anatomy, are available depending on the time of year. Weekly seminars run throughout the year, and include conferences on implants, orthognathic surgery, and teaching rounds. Other conferences, such as pathology review and journal club occur on a monthly basis.

The UCLA Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Preceptorship Program is hospital oriented with a well-proportioned balance of inpatient and outpatient care. The program covers the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery. A variety of outpatient procedures are performed in the oral surgery clinic of the UCLA School of Dentistry, with a special emphasis on dental implants. Many procedures are performed in the operating rooms. These can include orthognathic surgery, TMJ surgery, resection of pathologic lesions, reconstructive surgery, trauma surgery, and more.

Preceptors gain an important understanding for the vast and complex field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The structure of the preceptorship program can be customized for individuals with special areas of interest. For those wanting to expand their knowledge of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the preceptorship program offers unique educational opportunities. For those considering a career in oral and maxillofacial surgery, the program offers an exceptional opportunity to fully experience the specialty on a first-hand basis.