Department of Pediatric Dentistry

The Department of Pediatric Dentistry is responsible for teaching predoctoral dental students as well as postdoctoral students in the field of pediatric dentistry. The predoctoral educational program includes lecture and clinical instruction for dental students; the 24-month advanced education program prepares dental graduates to become highly-qualified pediatric dental specialists. The program is designed to encourage the development of critical thinking and an inquiring attitude on the part of postgraduate students. Postgraduate students obtain a Masters of Science through the Health Sciences Center and a Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry. Applicants to the pediatric program must apply through PASS, (Postdoctoral Application Support Service), a standardized application matching system provided by ADEA (American Dental Education Association). The LSUSD Pediatric Program also participates in the Postdoctoral Dental Matching Program (National Matching Services, Inc.). The postgraduate pediatric dentistry program is accredited for four positions each year; all the postgraduate students receive stipends. Faculty members within the department provide didactic and clinical education, and also mentor postgraduate students with their research projects. Specific faculty are members of the Center of Excellence in Oral and Craniofacial Biology to foster opportunities for research collaboration between clinical and basic science disciplines.