Residency · Free guides
How to get into a dental residency
One plain-English guide per path: what the field does, how long training takes, how you apply, a D1–D4 timeline and how to stand out. Every rule and number links to the ADA, CODA, ADEA or the program that says it (checked 2026-10-22).
🗺 Residency map🧾 Which programs require the ADAT📝 Application prep course
The 12 ADA-recognized specialties
😁 70 CODA-accredited programs on our mapOrthodontics and Dentofacial OrthopedicsBites, jaw growth and tooth movement. Programs run at least 24 months; many take part in the Dental Match.🏥 101 CODA-accredited programs on our mapOral and Maxillofacial SurgerySurgery of the mouth, jaws and face. At least four years; some programs include an MD.🦷 57 CODA-accredited programs on our mapEndodonticsThe pulp and the tissues around the root. At least 24 months; many programs use the ADAT.🌱 58 CODA-accredited programs on our mapPeriodonticsGums, bone and implants. Three academic years; Match participation varies by program.🧒 91 CODA-accredited programs on our mapPediatric DentistryCare for infants through teens, including children with special needs. At least 24 months.👑 50 CODA-accredited programs on our mapProsthodonticsRestoring and replacing teeth: crowns, dentures, implants. At least 34 months.🔬 14 CODA-accredited programs on our mapOral and Maxillofacial PathologyDiagnosing disease of the mouth and jaws, often under the microscope. At least 36 months.🩻 GuideOral and Maxillofacial RadiologyMaking and reading images of the head and neck, including CBCT. At least 24 months.🌎 GuideDental Public HealthOral health for whole communities. One-year programs expect an MPH first.💉 GuideDental AnesthesiologySedation and general anesthesia for dental care. At least 36 months.🩺 GuideOral MedicineOral care for medically complex patients. At least two academic years.🧠 GuideOrofacial PainJaw, face, head and neck pain, including TMD. At least two academic years.
General dentistry residencies
🏨 163 CODA-accredited programs on our mapGeneral Practice Residency (GPR)A hospital-based year (or two) of advanced general dentistry.🎓 103 CODA-accredited programs on our mapAdvanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)A year (or two) of advanced general dentistry, run by schools, hospitals or clinics.
Program counts come from CODA's list of accredited programs as shown on our residency map. Requirements change every cycle and differ by program: always confirm on each program's own page before you apply.