Request To Be Contacted
To be considered, please fill out the form:
Request to be contacted
You will be contacted by:
Ashraf F. Fouad, DDS, MS
Professor and Chair,
Department of Endodontics
Director, Advanced Educational Program in Endodontics
The Endodontics Research and Observership program is a continuing education program offered by the the UAB School of Dentistry Department of Endodontics and the UAB Continuing Dental Education Department. Participants who join this course are dentists who seek to have additional didactic, and research-based experience in endodontics that may assist in their application to Advanced Endodontics Educational Programs in the US. The course duration will be for 6 months. As part of the Endodontics Research and Observership, participants are permitted to attend didactic courses and seminars, participate in hands-on laboratory courses, and to observe clinical procedures within the Graduate Endodontics Clinic. Participants will not be authorized to provide any dental advice or perform any other duties that have been defined as within the scope of practice of dentistry by the Board of Dentistry in the State of Alabama. However, they may take HIPAA, CPR and Bloodborne Pathogen training. Completing this Observership does not guarantee a position in the Advanced Endodontics Program. However, participants will receive a CE certificate of completion for the Observership and a letter from the chair describing their performance and contributions during their time in the department.
More Details
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Opportunities
While this program does not allow performing any clinical care, participants will have the opportunity to observe clinical activities related to prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pulpitis, apical periodontitis, and related diseases and conditions. In addition, they will have the opportunity to interact with faculty and residents and discuss common interests in education and research.
Participants are encouraged to attend other research seminars in the School of Dentistry. Individuals interested in participating in ongoing research projects must contact the faculty mentor prior to arriving to discuss his/her interests.
Participants may also be interested in attending other continuing education courses offered through the School of Dentistry. Attendance is encouraged but the individual is responsible for the additional fees to attend these courses. Attendance and presentations at any regional, national, or international conferences is encouraged, but the individual will be responsible for all costs associated with such meetings (membership, registration, travel, etc.). -
Common Procedures
The UAB Department of Endodontics aims to educate the participant in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of endodontic diseases in a patient-centered environment. Specifically, participants will be exposed to advances in the areas of surgical and non-surgical root canal therapy, vital pulp therapy, nonvital bleaching, intentional replantation, as well as the management of dental trauma. They will also be exposed to and participate in contemporary endodontic research and learn about new technologies that enhance and facilitate the practice of endodontics.
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Specific Program Offerings
Participants will attend the following advanced courses with Endodontic residents:
· Fundamental of Endodontics: Foundational course to incoming Endodontics residents
· Current Endodontic Literature Review: Review, analysis, and critique of current literature relevant to Endodontics
· Topical Endodontic Literature Review: Review, analysis, and critique of literature relevant to Endodontic topics
· Case analysis and Treatment Planning in Endodontics: Case presentation and discussion by Endodontics residents
·Research in Endodontics: Various seminars, presentation of research data and data analysis of research findings.
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Duration and Tuition
The Observership duration will be for 6 months. The start and end dates will be by arrangement between the candidate and the chair. The tuition fee is $15,000. A 10% deposit is required upon acceptance.
CE course registration and payments will be through the UAB Continuing Dental Education department. Tuition fees are non-refundable, even if the candidate does not continue for the pre-approved duration.
Program Director
Ashraf F. Fouad, DDS, MS
Dr. Ashraf F. Fouad is Professor and Chair of the UAB School of Dentistry Department of Endodontics. He is also the director of the Advanced Educational Program in Endodontics at UAB.
The one-year Craniofacial Orthodontic Program is designed to provide you with advanced training and skills for the management of individuals with craniofacial anomalies and special care needs requiring complex multidisciplinary care. This program is administered through the Continuing Dental Education office at the School of Dentistry.
The focus of this subspecialty of orthodontics includes:
- Cleft lip and palate
- Syndromic craniosynostosis and other craniofacial anomalies
- Dentofacial deformities
- Craniofacial surgery
- Orthognathic surgery
- Distraction osteogenesis
- Nasoalveolar molding
- Special care orthodontics
Craniofacial Orthodontic participants have the opportunity to develop skills in the diagnosis and treatment planning using both two and three-dimensional diagnostic record sets for complex craniofacial anomalies requiring interdisciplinary team care. The fellow will rotate through the following 3 main centers for craniofacial care.
- UAB Craniofacial Disorders Clinic at the School of Dentistry
- Department of Pediatric Plastic Surgery at Children’s Hospital of Alabama
- Cleft Lip and Palate Offices of the Children’s Rehabilitation Services
Details
The program will provide you with experience in the following clinical areas:
- Newborn assessment for need of early intervention
- Presurgical orthopedics (nasoalveolar molding) for infants born with cleft lip and palate
- Growth and orthodontic management from the primary through adult dentition and attainment of skeletal maturity
- Surgical and orthodontic treatment planning, pre and post-surgical orthodontic management, surgical splint design and construction, and insertion of surgical fixation splints in the operating room
Each participant will initiate and complete at least one clinical research project, mentored by craniofacial orthodontic and plastic surgery faculty members. In addition, you will be expected to present a research paper at a national or international meeting during the program period.
Further Information
Resources
- Cleft and Craniofacial Center, Children’s Hospital of Alabama
- Department of Orthodontics, University of Alabama Birmingham
- Children’s Rehabilitation Services
Program Faculty
The faculty involved are craniofacial specialists with many years of experience. These include:
Chung H. Kau
B.D.S, MScD, Ph.D., F.A.M.S.(Ortho), F.A.C.D., F.F.D(Ortho), ABO
Fellowship Director
Professor of Orthodontics
Chair, Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry
Craniofacial Orthodontist
John Grant
M.D.
Professor
James C. Lee, III, Chair in Pediatric Plastic Surgery
Director, Cleft and Craniofacial Center
Chief, Pediatric Plastic Surgery
James M. Johnston, Jr.
M.D.
Assistant Professor
Pediatric Neurosurgery
Medical Director
Global Surgery Program
René P. Myers
M.D.
Assistant Professor
Pediatric Plastic Surgery
Kathlyn Kruger Powell
D.M.D., M.D.
Assistant Professor
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Curtis J. Rozzelle
M.D.
Associate Professor
Pediatric Neurosurgery
Nathaniel Robin
M.D.
Professor of Genetics
Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
Cassie Smola
M.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Pediatrics
Application and Tuition
Applications are welcomed through the year. However, only one fellow will be admitted annually. There is a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $350 USD. You may pay by credit card (MC, VISA, AMEX) or by check. If accepted, the fee for the one-year program is $50,000. The participants are responsible for their own living, housing, health insurance and visa expenses related to the program.
Request To Be Contacted
To be considered, please fill out the form:
Request to be contacted
You will be contacted by:
Hussein S Basma, DDS, MS
Assistant Professor
Department of Periodontology
The Department of Periodontology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a specialized educational program called the Periodontology Preceptorship Program. This initiative caters to dentists seeking additional didactic and research-based exposure in the field of periodontology and implantology. The primary aim is to enhance their applications for Advanced Periodontology and Implantology Educational Programs in the United States. The program can be undertaken for either a duration of 6 or 12 months, with tuition fees adjusted accordingly. Participants will have the opportunity to attend didactic courses, seminars, and hands-on laboratory sessions. Moreover, they will be able to observe various clinical procedures within the Graduate Periodontology Clinic.
While participants will not be allowed to engage in clinical dentistry tasks associated with patient care, as per the guidelines set by the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama, they will complete training in HIPAA, CPR, and Blood-borne Pathogen training and will participate in preclinical and digital exercises designed to enhance clinical skills.
It is important to note that completion of this program does not guarantee acceptance into Advanced Periodontology Programs. Nevertheless, successful participants will be awarded a certificate upon finishing the program and will receive a commendation letter from the program chair, acknowledging their performance and contributions during the program. The Periodontology Preceptorship Program aims to provide a comprehensive learning experience, empowering participants to expand their knowledge and expertise in the domain of periodontology and implantology, thereby advancing their pursuit of excellence in this field.
A Periodontology Preceptorship Program that spans one year and incorporates both clinical and research activities can be a valuable experience for students to enhance their dental knowledge and skills. Below is a comprehensive curriculum outline for such a program:
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Clinical Component
Clinical Component
Orientation and Introduction
During the orientation period, students will be introduced to the specific goals and objectives of the preceptorship program. The curriculum will be discussed in detail, and students should understand the expectations and responsibilities.
Clinical Training and Patient Care
While this program does not involve direct involvement in clinical care, participants will have the unique opportunity to observe and learn from clinical activities related to periodontal treatments, implant therapy, and digital dentistry. They will gain insights into the prevention, diagnosis, and management of periodontal diseases, as well as the intricate procedures involved in implant placement and restoration.
Additionally, fellows will have the chance to interact with experienced faculty and residents, fostering discussions on advancements in digital dentistry and its applications in modern periodontal practices. This exposure to cutting-edge techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration will undoubtedly enhance their understanding and preparation for future endeavors in periodontology, implantology, and the digital aspects of dentistry. During the program, participants will also have the opportunity to actively assist in various clinical activities, including surgical procedures. This hands-on experience will provide them with valuable insights into surgical techniques and patient management, further enhancing their clinical skills and competence.
Moreover, ethical considerations in patient care, such as informed consent, will be emphasized throughout the program to ensure that participants understand the importance of ethical conduct and patient confidentiality in their future practice. Overall, this comprehensive educational experience will equip participants with a strong foundation in periodontal treatments, implant therapy, and digital dentistry, enabling them to excel in their careers and provide optimal care to their patients.
Case Presentations
Participants will actively engage in evidence-based discussions and treatment planning by attending case presentations conducted by residents. These case presentations offer a platform for students to discuss and analyze the treatments provided to patients. Such interactive sessions foster critical thinking and enable students to gain valuable insights from experienced faculty and peers. By participating in these discussions, participants can refine their clinical decision-making skills and develop a deeper understanding of evidence-based approaches in periodontal and implant therapy.
Interdisciplinary Experience
Participants in this program will have the opportunity to attend classes from other departments, including endodontics, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and more. This cross-disciplinary exposure will broaden their understanding of various dental specialties and foster collaborative learning with professionals from different healthcare fields.
Moreover, participants will actively engage in treatment plan discussions during interdisciplinary case discussions. These sessions will provide a platform for them to collaborate with experts from various specialties, enabling a comprehensive approach to patient care. Such interactive discussions will enhance their critical thinking skills and prepare them to address complex dental cases effectively.
Organizing interdisciplinary workshops and discussions is a valuable aspect of this program, as it facilitates knowledge exchange and encourages participants to appreciate the significance of a multidisciplinary approach in dentistry. This exposure to diverse perspectives and expertise will undoubtedly enrich their learning experience and contribute to their growth as skilled and well-rounded dental
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Research Component
Research Component
This Program provides a thorough introduction to research methodology, study design, and data collection techniques. Students should be familiarized with appropriate research databases and resources for literature review. In this program, students will receive extensive support in developing a robust research proposal. They will be guided through formulating research questions, defining objectives, and selecting appropriate research methods to ensure the effectiveness of their studies. Moreover, participants will gain hands-on experience in data collection, either through working on research projects or assisting faculty with ongoing studies.
As a crucial aspect of their research journey, students will regularly participate in research presentations, refining their scientific communication skills. These presentations will serve as platforms for constructive feedback and open discussions, further enhancing the quality and impact of their research work. Furthermore, participants will receive vital guidance in scientific writing and manuscript preparation, including proper citation practices, adherence to journal guidelines, and effectively addressing reviewer feedback. These invaluable skills will prepare students to publish their research findings successfully and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
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Assessment and Evaluation
Assessment and Evaluation
Regular assessments of clinical skills and patient interactions can be carried out by faculty and clinical supervisors. Feedback should be constructive, helping students identify areas for improvement. Students should have regular meetings with their research mentors to track progress, troubleshoot challenges, and set milestones for their research projects.
The program should culminate in a final presentation where students showcase their clinical and research experiences. Faculty evaluations and peer feedback can provide a comprehensive assessment of the student's growth throughout the preceptorship.
More Details
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Opportunities
While this program does not allow performing any clinical care, participants will have the opportunity to observe clinical activities. In addition, they will have the opportunity to interact with faculty and residents and discuss common interests in education and research.
Participants are encouraged to attend other research seminars in the School of Dentistry. Individuals interested in participating in ongoing research projects must contact the faculty mentor prior to arriving to discuss his/her interests.
Participants may also be interested in attending other continuing education courses offered through the School of Dentistry. Participation is encouraged but the individual is responsible for the additional fees to attend these courses. Attendance and presentations at any regional, national, or international conferences is encouraged, but the individual will be responsible for all costs associated with such meetings (membership, registration, travel, etc.). -
Common Procedures
The UAB Advanced Education in Prosthodontics Program aims to educate the participants in prevention, diagnosis and treatment planning, procedures related to fixed and removable prosthodontics, and digital dentistry, and related diseases and conditions in a patient-centered environment. Specifically, participants will be exposed to advances in the areas of digital dentistry, implant dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, as well as treatment planning. They will also be exposed to and participate in contemporary prosthodontics research and learn about new technologies that enhance and facilitate the practice of prosthodontics.
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Specific Program Offerings
Participants will attend the following advanced courses with Prosthodontic residents:
· Fundamentals of Prosthodontics: Foundational course
· Prosthodontic Literature Review: Review, analysis, and critique of current literature relevant to Prosthodontics
· Hands-on preclinical exercises for advanced prosthodontics treatments using digital and conventional workflows including, fixed prosthodontics, implant dentistry, removable prosthesis, and veneers
· Patient Presentation and Treatment Planning in Prosthodontics: Patient presentation and discussion by Prosthodontics residents
·Research in Prosthodontics and Dental Materials: Various seminars, presentation of research data and data analysis of research findings.
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Duration and Tuition
The start and end dates will be by arrangement between the candidate and the chair. The tuition fee is $15,000 for six months or $25,000 for one year. A 10% deposit is required upon acceptance.
Registration, matriculation, and payments will be through the Continuing Education Office at UAB. Tuition fees are non-refundable, even if the candidate does not continue for the pre-approved duration.
Program Director
Hussein S Basma, DDS, MS
Dr. Hussein Basma received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Damascus University in 2009. Dr. Basma completed a residency in Prosthodontics at Lebanese University and received a Certificate in Periodontology and Master of Science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Dr. Basma is a Diplomate in the American Board of Periodontology, lectures nationally and internationally about periodontology and dental implants and is a dental social media influencer. Dr. Basma is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Periodontology at UAB. His research and teaching efforts focus on bone augmentation, full-arch rehabilitation, multidisciplinary care, and integration of technology. Dr Basma is currently an active member of The American Academy of Periodontology, Academy of Osteointegration and The International Team for Implantology.
Craniofacial Orthodontic Program
The one-year Craniofacial Orthodontic CE program is designed to provide you with advanced training and skills for the management of individuals with craniofacial anomalies and special care needs requiring complex multidisciplinary care. This training program is administered through the Continuing Dental Education office at the School of Dentistry.
Endodontics Research and Observership
The Endodontics Research and Observership program is a continuing education program offered by the the UAB School of Dentistry Department of Endodontics and the UAB Continuing Dental Education Department. Participants who join this course are dentists who seek to have additional didactic, and research-based experience in endodontics that may assist in their application to Advanced Endodontics Educational Programs in the US. The course duration will be for 6 months.
Orthodontics Mini Residency
The Orthodontics Mini Residency is a two-month program available to foreign-trained dentists who possess a D.M.D./D.D.S. or equivalent and have successfully completed an accredited dental program in a country other than the United States or Canada. This course aims to educate dentists on basic orthodontic concepts and prepare interested applicants to successfully integrate into the International Orthodontic Certificate Program of UAB, upon further acceptance.
Periodontology Preceptorship Program
This program caters to dentists seeking additional didactic and research-based exposure in the field of periodontology and implantology. The primary aim is to enhance their applications for Advanced Periodontology and Implantology Educational Programs in the United States. The program can be undertaken for either a duration of 6 or 12 months, with tuition fees adjusted accordingly. Participants will have the opportunity to attend didactic courses, seminars, and hands-on laboratory sessions. Moreover, they will be able to observe various clinical procedures within the Graduate Periodontology Clinic.
How to access past CE certificates
To retrieve copies of your past CE certificates, please click this link and login: Click Here
You will need your login ID (often this is your email address) and password.
After logging in, click Certificates on the left side of the page. (Sixth from the top of the list.)
This will give you access to your CE certificates on record with us, and it will allow you to download copies for your records.
If you have any questions or need further help, please contact the CE office.
The Orthodontics Mini Residency is a two-month program available to foreign-trained dentists who possess a D.M.D./D.D.S. or equivalent and have successfully completed an accredited dental program in a country other than the United States or Canada. This course aims to educate dentists on basic orthodontic concepts and prepare interested applicants to successfully integrate into the International Orthodontic Certificate Program of UAB, upon further acceptance. Applications are open year-round and admissions are offered three times per year. Completing this Residency does not guarantee a position in the International Orthodontic Certificate Program of UAB. Please contact the Department of Orthodontics administrative office at (205) 934-4547 for specific dates.

Hotels
Residence Inn Marriott Birmingham Downtown at UAB
821 20th Street South
Birmingham, AL 35205
(205) 731-9595
Hilton Birmingham at UAB
808 20th Street South
Birmingham, AL 35205
(205) 933-9000
Embassy Suites Hoover
2960 John Hawkins Parkway
Hoover, AL 35244
(205) 985-9994
Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel
1000 Riverchase Galleria
Hoover, Alabama, USA, 35244
(205) 705-1234
Area Attractions
Come for a CE class and stay for the weekend! From the Alabama Theatre to Vulcan Park, Birmingham has something for everyone. Plus, this city is a foodie’s paradise! There’s no excuse if you leave hungry.

Welcome to UAB Continuing Dental Education
At UAB Continuing Dental Education, we are proud to provide outstanding educational programs for our community. Our programs are a service that UAB School of Dentistry makes available to meet the CE needs of our graduates and the profession of dentistry within the state of Alabama and surrounding areas. Learn more about us, take a look at all we have to offer, and join us for a course soon!
Our Purpose
Providing university-sponsored opportunities for lifelong learning, UAB Continuing Dental Education offers curriculum that actively engages the learner in acquiring new information and skills. School of Dentistry faculty respond proactively to changing and advancing technology in dentistry by offering education programs which provide the skills needed to maintain and enhance clinical competency.
UAB Continuing Dental Education supplies educational opportunities for dental health care professionals which meet requirements set by the Alabama Board of Dental Examiners.
Our Mission
- To provide relevant dental courses and continual academic information for the dental profession.
- To educate and train the dental professional to achieve higher levels of skills and knowledge.
- To provide dental professionals in Alabama with courses required for license renewal.
- To present outstanding programs by clinicians with expertise in their respective fields, including important controversial subjects of interest to the dental profession.
Our Goals
- To provide relevant dental courses and continual academic information for the dental profession.
- To educate and train the dental professional to achieve higher levels of skills and knowledge.
- To provide dental professionals in Alabama with courses required for license renewal.
- To present outstanding programs by clinicians with expertise in their respective fields, including important controversial subjects of interest to the dental profession.
Dental Hygiene Symposium and Hinman Lectures
Learn more about the annual Dental Hygiene Symposium and Hinman Lectures, the two-day program is for hygienists, assistants, office managers, and dentists.
Dr. Perng-Ru Liu Memorial Lecture
In recognition of his eternal service to the School of Dentistry and the many lives – faculty, staff, students, and alumni – he touched, UAB Continuing Dental Education has established this annual daylong lecture dedicated to the memory of Dr. Liu.
More Information
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Contact Us
Ann Marie Karaki
Continuing Education Director
SDB 217
(205) 934-3753
Rachel Steadham
University Events Specialist
SBD 215
(205) 934-3753


