Endodontics
Advanced specialty training in endodontics, research, and academic leadership
The Advanced Graduate Program in Endodontics at Harvard School of Dental Medicine is a three-year specialty program leading to a Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc) degree in oral biology and a certificate in endodontics. An optional four-year Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc) degree supports those pursuing academic or research careers.
This endodontics residency integrates advanced training in endodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and complex case management with a strong foundation in biological sciences and research methodology. Residents develop the clinical expertise and scholarly skills required for specialty practice and academic leadership.
Graduates fulfill the educational requirements for certification by the American Board of Endodontics and are prepared for careers in specialty clinical practice, research, and academic dentistry.
Degrees/certificates offered
Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc)/Certificate in Endodontics
This three-year program culminates in a combined MMSc degree in oral biology and a certificate in endodontics.
Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc)/Certificate in Endodontics
This four-year program culminates in a combined DMSc degree in oral biology and a certificate in endodontics.
Apply now
To apply to the Endodontics program, review the application requirements and follow the steps provided on the AGE admissions page.
Program details and academic policies
Approximately 40 percent of the program involves clinical experience, which students gain through the treatment of patients at the Harvard Dental Center at HSDM. Students work under the direct supervision of either full- or part-time endodontics instructors. Expectations focus on quality and diversity of experience, which must include 200 to 225 nonsurgical procedures, 20 to 30 surgical procedures, and at least 50 recalls.
Didactic courses given by the department, HSDM, and affiliated institutions make up 30 percent of the program. Department seminars include Interdepartmental Treatment Planning, Current and Classic Literature Reviews, and Intradepartmental Case Presentations.
All advanced graduate students engage in research as an integral part of their training at HSDM. Research activities are conducted with Harvard faculty mentors at HSDM or affiliated institutions, including Children’s Hospital Boston, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Forsyth Institute.
During the second and third years, each advanced graduate student gains teaching experience through clinical, lecture, and laboratory teaching assignments in the predoctoral endodontics curriculum.
The program in endodontics is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. For more information, please visit the Commission on Dental Accreditation website.
Program director
Jennifer Gibbs
jennifer_gibbs@hsdm.harvard.edu