Program layout

Specialist Dental Training Program in Orthodontics 

The purpose of the postgraduate program is to train the program participant to become a competent orthodontist. This demands a thorough understanding of general biological principles and functions as well as a comprehension of the science of orthodontics. Technical skills are trained in pre-clinic courses and during treatment of a large variety of orthodontic patients. Furthermore, evidence-based orthodontics and critical thinking are exercised during the study and evaluation of textbooks and scientific articles related to orthodontics. As of June 2014, the program is a full member of the Network of Erasmus Based European Orthodontic Programs. 

Read the program description.

Swedish language 

The specialist training program is held mainly in English but in order to communicate with your patients, a good command of the Swedish language is necessary. 

If you are a dentist with a dental license from an EU country, you need a Swedish dental license before starting the Program. In order to get a Swedish dental license you need to show certification of Swedish at level C1 to Socialstyrelsen (in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). 

If you are a dentist with a license from outside the EU/EES, you are required to study Swedish up to level B2. Sahlgrenska International Care can assist you with coordinating Swedish language studies. 

Please note that costs for language courses are not included in the tuition fees. 

Clinical practice 

Clinical practice takes place in the Clinic of Orthodontics and will consist of 24 hours per week. The Program participant will be responsible for the treatment of about 120 patients with various diagnoses. 

Lectures and seminars 

These will consist of up to 1,600 scheduled hours per year and will include formal series of lectures, scientific and clinical seminars, self-study and extensive literature reviews. 

The Program participant is also required to carry out a limited research project, usually of a clinical nature. Seminars are held to describe research methodology and present results. Regular literature seminars will also be held. 

Teaching 

Opportunities will be provided for teaching undergraduate students in demonstrations, seminars and lectures, as well as presenting treated cases and research projects at national and international conferences. Seminars in teaching methodology will be held. 

Examination 

The final examination implemented by an external examiner includes presentation of 30 well-documented cases with special emphasis on reasons for treatment, choice of treatment method, evaluation of retention and long-term stability, and also presentation of the research project. 

The requirements for taking part in the final examination are that the Program participant must have successfully completed all theoretical and clinical courses during the six semesters. 

Once the Program participant has successfully passed the final examinations, a Diploma in Orthodontics as well as a Certificate of Specialization signed by the examination board will be issued.