Clinical orthodontics in predoctoral education. Six years of experience at Indiana University

Since 1990, clinical achievement in orthodontics has been a graduation requirement at Indiana University. To be certified for graduation, all dental students must treat at least one limited orthodontic problem and observe the retention of at least one previously treated, limited orthodontics patient. Although clinical orthodontics for adults appears to be a very successful addition to the predoctoral curriculum, the specific accreditation requirements that mandated it have been rescinded. However, the positive response of the students, apparent acceptance by the orthodontic community, and the national acclaim afforded the program indicate that a hands-on clinical experience in orthodontics is a positive addition to the predoctoral curriculum.