What are the top orthodontic residency programs?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the top orthodontic residency programs in the United States are:

1. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)

3. University of Michigan (UMich)

4. Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)

5. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

6. Harvard University (Harvard)

7. Columbia University (Columbia)

8. New York University (NYU)

9. University of Southern California (USC)

10. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth)

These programs are highly competitive, and admission requirements vary. Generally, applicants must have a bachelor's degree, a dental degree (DDS or DMD), and strong academic and extracurricular credentials. Some programs also require applicants to have research experience or a master's degree.

Residency programs typically last for three years and provide comprehensive training in orthodontics. Residents learn how to diagnose and treat a variety of orthodontic problems, including malocclusion (bad bites), crowding, spacing, and jaw problems. They also gain experience in using various orthodontic appliances, including braces, aligners, and retainers.

After completing a residency program, orthodontists are eligible to take the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) examination. ABO certification is a voluntary credential that demonstrates an orthodontist's commitment to continuing education and professional excellence.