Faculty:

• Michael Bernard, D.D.S., M.S., A.B.O.
• Leonard Cyterski, D.M.D., M.S., A.B.O.
• Alan Gibbs, D.D.S.
• Robert Good, II, D.M.D., M.D.S., A.B.O.
• Ronald Good, D.M.D, M.S., A.B.O.
• Brian King, D.M.D., A.B.O.
• Tara Kraisinger, B.S., M.S., D.D.S., A.B.O.
• Richard Ribarevski, D.M.D., M.D.S.
• Daniel J. Rinchuse, D.M.D., M.S., M.D.S., Ph.D., A.B.O., Program Director
• James Tinnemeyer, D.M.D., A.B.O.
• Thomas Zullo, Ph.D.

The Orthodontics Program combines advanced instruction in biomedical and clinical sciences with teaching, research, and clinical experiences to fully prepare residents to provide the best orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic care. This 30 month program, directed by experienced, board certified, and currently practicing orthodontists, serves the community by providing direct care to patients in Seton Hill’s Center for Orthodontics. Upon completion, students receive the Master of Science degree in Orthodontics and the certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

Educational Objectives

1. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills to engage in quality and contemporary orthodontics practice:

• execute multi-disciplinary treatment plans and care delivery that incorporates knowledge and understanding of pediatric dentistry, prosthodontics, periodontics, and/or oral surgery; 
• provide orthodontic treatments according to the standards set by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO);
• make appropriate decisions on the timing of orthodontic treatment based on principles of science and evidence;
• apply knowledge from the biomedical and clinical sciences into orthodontic patient care;
• provide appropriate treatment plans and treatments for patients with various types of malocclusions including those with severe dentofacial abnormalities;
• apply biopsychosocial principles for Temporomandibular Disorder Treatments;
• make appropriate biomechanical decisions on “anchorage preparation” in light of contemporary “Temporary Anchorage Devices”;
• develop methods for resolving orthodontic clinical crises and complications that arise in orthodontic practice.

2. Provide patient care in an ethical, compassionate, and empathetic manner:

• demonstrate the ability to engage with patients using a patientcentered philosophy, empowering them as active participants in their own treatment plan care;
• utilize principles of patient management that include effective orthodontics patient teaching methods as well as incorporating behavioral science strategies;
• apply current principles of infection control and environmental safety;
• develop treatment plans grounded in evidence-based clinical practice;
• provide orthodontic patient treatments that adhere to current risk management recommendations including proper patient informed consent.

3. Apply theory and research to determine the most effective treatment plan and procedures for the unique patient by understanding how she/he fits into the Evidence-Based Orthodontic Practice Model:

• demonstrate the ability to analyze and evaluate research and methodology;
• use biostatistics, research design, and the analysis and interpretation of research data to conduct an independent research project;
• evidence effective written communication and oral presentation skills;
• produce a publishable manuscript based on independent research.

4. Actively engage in the orthodontics profession and participate in socially responsible practice:

• identify and respond to the special needs of the underserved in any orthodontic setting;
• identify cultural differences and recognize the impact of culture on the delivery of orthodontic care;
• follow the ethical and legal standards of the profession;
• actively participate in the Orthodontics profession as a clinician, educator, and researcher.