Are you looking for AEGD programs for international dentists? Look no further! I’ve compiled a list of these programs and will guide you through the essential information you need.
AEGD stands for “Advanced Education in General Dentistry.” It’s a certificate program, typically lasting a year (with an optional second year), designed for dentists aiming to enhance their clinical skills through training and seminars.
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Dental residency programs for foreign trained dentists in USA
In the United States, there are currently 177 GPR programs and 93 AEGD programs, as per the American Dental Education Association (ADEA). This article will focus on the best schools offering AEGD programs, recommended for aspiring dentists.
Apart from AEGD programs, there are various dental programs available in different states for students interested in pursuing this path. Additionally, you can start preparing for these programs by taking free online dental courses.
Dentistry is rapidly evolving, and AEGD programs are ideal for keeping up with these changes. If you’re in Texas, there’s a specific AEGD program tailored for dentists residing there. Check it out for closer proximity and consider enrolling!
Are AEGD programs a good fit for International Dentists?
Many international dentists initially thought that the CAAPID process was the only way to obtain a license to practice dentistry in the US. However, this is not true.
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There are six potential pathways to getting a license, and the Advanced Standing Programs (often called the CAAPID process) that offer a DDS or DMD degree are just one of them.
Another popular route chosen by international dentists is through a postdoctoral program, commonly known as a “residency.” Among these residencies, the AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry) has been particularly attractive for foreign-trained dentists. Here’s why:
1. Similar application process: AEGD programs have a process similar to CAAPID and PASS AEGD.
2. Similar evaluation steps: The evaluation steps are comparable between CAAPID and PASS AEGD.
3. Shorter duration: AEGD programs are usually a year shorter than Advanced Standing programs through CAAPID. The second year in AEGD programs is often optional.
4. Academic exposure: Some AEGD programs provide access to the same faculty and clinical resources as Advanced Standing Programs.
5. Job flexibility: AEGD programs offer similar job opportunities in the state where your school is located. If you plan to move to states for work, AEGD programs are a good option.
6. Lower cost: AEGD program fees are, on average, 60% lower than CAAPID program fees at the same schools.
Despite these advantages, many international applicants continue to apply to CAAPID programs. Before we explain why, let us clarify some terms:
– CAAPID (Common Application for International Dentists) is a portal for dentists who completed their education outside the US to apply to come here.
– PASS (Postdoctoral Application Support Service) is analogous to CAAPID but offers access to all of America’s dental residency programs, including AEGD.
Hopefully, this provides a clear understanding of the options available to international dentists.
Distinctions
Now, let’s explore the main distinctions:
1. AEGD provides a certificate, while an IDP program grants a degree.
2. If you’re considering starting a practice and need a health professional loan, obtaining one may be more challenging with an AEGD certificate.
3. AEGD programs may offer an optional second year, offering more flexibility compared to the fixed durations in an IDP program.
4. AEGD programs can restrict your ability to find a job in different locations. We’ll delve into this point more in the next paragraph.
AEGD Programs For International Dentists
- AEGD Program at the University of Connecticut
- AEGD Program at the University of Maryland school of dentistry
- AEGD Program at Columbia college of dental medicine
- AEGD Program at Temple University, Kornberg School of Dentistry
- AEGD Program at Buffalo University
- AEGD Program at the University of Pennslyvania
- Eastman Institute for Oral Health Postdoctoral Dental Education Programs
- AEGD program at NOVA Southeastern University
AEGD Program at the University of Connecticut
Founded in 1881, the University of Connecticut in Storrs is the pioneer in offering AEGD programs for international dentists. The Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program, lasting one year with an optional second year, focuses on clinical general dentistry.
This program admits eighteen first-year residents who engage in a setting resembling a modern group practice. The goal is to enhance residents’ clinical skills and scientific knowledge in dentistry.
Throughout the program, 15% of the residents’ time is dedicated to a comprehensive didactic program, building upon their existing knowledge.
The AEGD program at UConn Health provides a robust clinical experience centered around the general dentistry clinic. For those seeking to join an AEGD program, this one comes highly recommended.
AEGD Program at the University of Maryland school of dentistry
The University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD) provides an Advanced Program for Internationally-Trained Dentists in General Dentistry. It’s the second school in our lineup that offers AEGD programs for dentists trained internationally.
This Advanced General Dentistry program is designed for continuing education, offering a structured, hands-on, short-term educational experience for dentists trained outside the U.S. The program follows the schedule of the Advanced General Dentistry residency, where participants attend classes and seminars alongside AEGD residents. It spans a fixed duration of 6 months.
The benefits of this program for internationally trained dentists include:
1. Introduction to comprehensive care, including analyzing clinical data for sound diagnosis and treatment planning.
2. Familiarization with updated dental materials.
3. Exposure to the implant workflow.
4. Insight into U.S. dental clinic practices.
5. Opportunity to practice and enhance English skills, including technical language.
6. Assistance in deciding whether to pursue a formal residency in the U.S.
To qualify, you need to submit the following documents:
1. Completed application.
2. Application fee ($160.00 USD).
3. Curriculum vitae (CV).
4. Personal statement or letter of intent.
5. Notarized copy of dental school diploma or degree.
6. Original transcripts translated into English.
7. ECE/WES course-by-course evaluation.
8. TOEFL score reports.
9. Three letters of recommendation.
10. Passport biographical page.
11. J-1 Visa (minimum requirement).
For English language proficiency, you can provide either TOEFL (minimum 80 internet-based tests, 550 paper-based) or IELTS (minimum 7.0 total bandwidth score). The scores should not be more than two years old at the time of J-1 request submission.
AEGD Program at Columbia college of dental medicine
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program provides a diverse range of experiences for residents to apply evidence-based dentistry and professional ethics while advancing their clinical skills. It’s the third school on our list offering AEGD programs for international dentists.
The AEGD Postdoctoral Program is a 12-month certificate program with an optional second year, welcoming both US/Canadian and foreign-trained dentists. This two-year opportunity is designed for postdoctoral students seeking additional training.
Participants in this program enhance their clinical skills and gain proficiency in managing more complex patients. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine’s AEGD certificate program adheres to the accreditation standards set by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
The program’s goal is to prepare residents to independently provide compassionate care, not only for complex cases but also for special patients.
AEGD Program at Temple University, Kornberg School of Dentistry
The program is designed to accommodate six recent dental school graduates who work as residents, as well as applicants with a DMD or DDS degree from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). It’s the fourth school on our list offering AEGD programs for international dentists.
Dentists with a BDS, DMD, or DDS from an international dental school not accredited by CODA can also apply to the AEGD program for international dentists.
The AEGD program includes a 15-chair clinical facility with a fully equipped dental laboratory, expanded dental operatories, storage for instruments and materials, radiology capability, resident office space, sterilization area, waiting room, and front desk space.
This AEGD program starts in July and continues until the following June. The tuition cost is a flat fee of $73,978 with an additional $4,500 instrument fee. Please note that these prices may change for upcoming academic years based on the University’s adjustments in tuition.
AEGD Program at Buffalo University
The school provides a single program with two distinct options based on the candidate’s dental training, each with its application process:
1. Traditional One-Year Residency Program: For candidates with DDS or DMD degrees from the US or Canada.
- Residents complete the 12-month program on a full-time basis.
- Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the US or Canada.
- Application and acceptance processes are managed through PASS/MATCH.
2. Two-Year International Scholars Program: Designed for internationally trained dentists.
- Completed on a part-time basis over two years, including a concurrent master’s degree program.
- Candidates need financial support from their host institution and must commit to returning to that institution after program completion.
- Self-supported candidates are not eligible; they may consider our International Dentist Program.
- Applications are submitted via the UB Application.
AEGD Program at the University of Pennslyvania
The one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program is designed to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to serve as primary oral health care providers within the realm of general dental care.
This educational program combines clinical training, lectures, and seminars, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient-centered care.
The AEGD curriculum includes four courses: the Resident Clinical Experience Course, Resident Lecture Series, Resident Seminar Series, and the Cohen Conference Oral Medicine Seminar Series. Through a blend of clinical and didactic coursework, residents build a strong foundation to provide comprehensive care to patients.
Residents engage in clinical care rotations at various facilities, such as the Penn Dental Medicine Care Center for Persons with Disabilities, Woods Services, and Penn Dental Medicine clinical facilities.
Here, they treat patients with diverse social, medical, economic, and psychosocial complexities, collaborating with dental specialty residents and other healthcare providers.
The scope of general dentistry includes operative dentistry, restorative procedures, periodontal therapy, endodontic therapy, oral surgery, and addressing dental emergencies.
The program’s goals are fourfold:
1. Act as primary care providers for patients with complex medical and specialized health care needs.
2. Function effectively within an interdisciplinary health care team.
3. Apply principles of evidence-based care, scientific knowledge, professional ethics, and cultural humility.
4. Engage with the community in a culturally relevant and sensitive manner through service activities.
The program has received partial support from the Health Resources and Services Administration. Additionally, the Advanced Education in General Dentistry program has been granted “initial accreditation” by the Commission on Dental Accreditation as of February 10, 2022.
Eastman Institute for Oral Health Postdoctoral Dental Education Programs
The Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Program goes beyond basic dental education, offering advanced training in oral health care using practical sciences and behavioral sciences.
Key Program Features:
- Flexible Curriculum: Both one- and two-year dental residency programs include a mix of required and elective coursework.
- Resident Life: The program at URMC prioritizes work/life balance, fostering a supportive environment for residents to learn and thrive in Rochester.
Program Highlights:
- Open to US/Canadian and foreign-trained dentists.
- AEGD certificate program, approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
- Foreign-trained applicants follow a two-year AEGD program.
- US/Canadian applicants can choose between one or two-year AEGD programs.
- Two-year AEGD participants can integrate research training into their program.
Clinical Activities
- Residents gain hands-on clinical training in various dental areas, including removable and fixed prosthodontics, periodontics, operative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, dental implantology, and orthodontics.
- Treatment plans and case management are carried out with faculty guidance from specialists in orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontology, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral pathology, and general dentistry.
AEGD program at NOVA Southeastern University
NSU College of Dental Medicine provides a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program, extendable to an optional second year for more advanced general dentistry.
The program, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, results in a certificate from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine.
This residency aims to enhance residents’ clinical skills, techniques, and scientific knowledge in general dentistry. The course offers advanced training beyond predoctoral education, refining their abilities for practical application in dental practice.
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Chibueze Uchegbu is a certified medical physiologist with a great passion for healthy living.