Each year, a matching program – referred to as “Match” – is used by some postdoctoral dental education programs to determine the final placement of applicants into positions. Those specialties include Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, and Periodontology, among others.

With Phase I of the Match process complete, several UAB School of Dentistry D.M.D. students have already matched into residency programs. Those include three fourth-year students who matched into the specialty of Periodontology. Coincidentally, all three – Nate Dennis, Farah Niyazi, and Tyrus Smith – matched with UAB’s Advanced Education Program in Periodontology. They will return to UAB for 3 more years as they gain experience to become periodontists—specialists in the supporting structures around the teeth and surgical dental implant placement.

Here what these three students have to say about their choice of specialty and UAB’s Periodontology postdoctoral program:

“I chose to study periodontics for three main reasons: I value long-term patient relationships, I enjoy surgical procedures, and Periodontics focuses on retaining natural teeth; however, when natural teeth must be removed, implants are their best current replacement,” says Dennis.

“I chose to continue my education at UAB because of the unbelievable learning environment offered by the Perio faculty, residents, and staff, which has resulted in a long history of well-rounded, clinically elite practitioners.”

Farah Niyazi says, “I’ve always enjoyed the thrill that comes with the surgical aspect of dentistry and was fascinated by the impact periodontal treatment can have on a patient’s overall well-being and dental health.”

“I chose UAB Perio because I wanted to be part of a family where everyone helps each other to push themselves out of their comfort zone, cares for one another, learns and grows together. I can’t wait to join my future co-residents to provide the best care for our patients.”

According to Tyrus Smith, “I chose UAB Perio because they offer supreme clinical training under the guidance of their amazing faculty members. The Perio faculty at UAB truly buy into the idea that they are able to positively impact each patient we see for the rest of our careers. On top of this, the residents at UAB value having a collaborative and cohesive environment.”

“I am so excited to become part of the UAB Perio family,” says Smith.

Mia L. Geisinger, D.D.S., M.S., Director of Advanced Education in Periodontology and Acting Department Chair, says the department is thrilled to welcome four incoming residents for the UAB Perio Class of 2027, including the three from UAB School of Dentistry.

“Our department is focused on optimizing the overall health of our patients and the community through superior periodontal care, education, scholarship, and outreach. Our Periodontology residents are an integral part of that mission, and we are excited to work with these accomplished young men and women as they move forward with the next phase of their educational journey!”