Length of Program: 1-4 Quarters*

Number of Positions: 2

Program Director: Dr. Payam Afzali

 

The purpose of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Preceptorship Program is to offer a broad, expanded educational experience in all aspects of clinical oral and maxillofacial surgery well beyond what is obtained in dental school. The program is intended for general dentists who wish to enhance their knowledge of the specialty. It is also beneficial for those who may be considering a career in oral and maxillofacial surgery but would like to obtain a greater exposure before making this important decision. The program can also be beneficial for established oral and maxillofacial surgeons who want to acquaint themselves with some of the latest cutting-edge concepts.

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.

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A certificate of attendance is awarded upon successful completion of the program. This certificate is not the same as the postgraduate program certificate awarded to full-time residents in specialty training and cannot be used as a qualification for recognition by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Selection Process & Factors

The admissions committee considers the following criteria in its decisions:

  • Academic achievement

  • English language proficiency

  • Content of personal statement

  • Content of confidential reports

  • Strong work ethic

  • Outstanding interpersonal strengths

Program Fees

Fees: $5,700 per quarter starting July 1, 2024 (subject to change)

Certificate Fee: One-time payment of $200

Refund Policy:

Payment100% for each quarter
100% refund10 weeks before start of quarter
50% refund5 weeks before start of quarter
Noneless than 5 weeks before start of quarter

Contact Us

Postgraduate Programs Officer
Phone: (310) 825-7478 
postdds@dentistry.ucla.edu