The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) has granted initial accreditation to the Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO), which aims to expand educational opportunities as well as access to care. The GSO’s inaugural resident class of 18 licensed dentists commenced studies last month at its Atlanta facility.
“CODA’s decision to grant us initial accreditation was a critical step in our ability to fulfill our mission of educating dentists to become orthodontists while providing affordable care to an underserved population,” said board-certified program director Pramod Sinha, DDS.
The 36-month residency program’s education and admission standards were developed in accordance with CODA’s accreditation standards. Its curriculum was designed around a collaborative and evidence-based educational model. Students must conduct independent research, present it at scientific symposia, and submit it for publication as well.
On-site technology includes 3-D intraoral scanners for accuracy and speed in virtual treatment planning while eliminating the need for impressions or plaster. Also, the GSO’s cone-beam extraoral scanner greatly reduces patients’ exposure to radiation while producing 2-D or 3-D high-resolution imaging.
Furthermore, the GSO’s 3-D digital printer enables students to construct custom appliances such as retainers and mouth guards, as well as study models. It also gives them the capability for automatic color matching for the lab to print teeth. And, the accurate device takes the guesswork out of bracket placement using indirect bonding techniques.
Students and staff alike will provide treatment at the school’s clinic to children, teens, and adults at significantly reduced costs. For example, braces cost 40% less at the GSO than at competing clinics, the school said, with 0% financing plans and monthly payments as low as $97 for traditional metal braces. Colored and ceramic braces in addition to Invisalign are available too.
In June, the GSO selected 3 children who will receive complimentary orthodontic care. Treatment will include all necessary orthodontic work including braces and retainers. Children who were nominated for the program but not selected will receive a $500 discount in the cost of their treatment.
“We reviewed hundreds of nomination entries and after thoughtful deliberation chose 3 children who truly inspired us and whose stories touched our hearts,” said Sinha. “We want to help boost their confidence by giving them the smile they have always dreamed of and deserve.”
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