Content submitted by WVU School of Dentistry Department of Orthodontics

Bootcamp

This past August, the first-year orthodontic residents had a two-day intensive laboratory bootcamp that gave them valuable experiences with wire-bending, fabricating various orthodontic appliances, and learning how to troubleshoot laboratory issues commonly encountered in day-to-day practice. It was a great experience to get together in person and learn from a master technician. We truly appreciated it, and look forward to next year’s course!

AAO – Chicago

In April, the WVU Department of Orthodontics was delighted to attend the AAO annual session in Chicago. At the conference, the residents were able to attend many wonderful lectures including the one given by Dr. Ngan. The residents reconnected with alumni and  mentors at the alumni reception and throughout the conference.  Residents also learned new techniques and biomechanics to broaden their orthodontic education. We also got to host residents from Saudi Arabia at the departmental dinner in Chicago's Chinatown. The conference was an incredible experience and it was at this conference that Dr. Larry Andrew, the founder of our Andrews orthodontic treatment philosophy, received the prestigious Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award.

SAO-Amelia Island, FL

In October the West Virginia University Department of Orthodontics attended the annual session of the Southern Association of Orthodontists at Amelia Island Resort Fernandina Beach, Florida. During the opening ceremony the residents celebrated several distinguished orthodontists who were honored and recognized for their dedication to the orthodontic profession. The keynote address was by Tim Tebow and Josh Mancuso. The residents had the opportunity to network, learn about topics such as clear aligner therapy, Carrier appliance, sleep apnea and business management. The residents were also exposed to new products from different vendors at the exhibit hall. It was a successful event. We hope that WVU will continue to honor the tradition of attending the SAO annual session and we can’t wait for Orlando next year!

Alumni Continuing Education Course

The Department of Orthodontics hosted the annual alumni continuing education course on September 8, 2023. The speaker for the course was Dr. Timothy Tremont, Chair of the Department of Orthodontics at MUSC. The lecture gave the residents insight into the use of Six Elements to diagnose transverse problems and the use of expansion with the aid of TADS for skeletally matured patients. There was a great turnout of alumni for a brief reunion. We welcomed the Seton Hill residents as well. Overall the course was a great success and we hope that WVU will continue to honor the tradition of the annual continuing education course.

Tweed Seminar

From September 9 to September 17, our second-year orthodontic residents traveled to Tucson, Arizona to partake in the Charles H. Tweed International Foundation’s Tweed Study Course in Edgewise Mechanics. The course was an incredible learning experience that challenged our residents to finesse their wire bending skills and educated them on  techniques, treatment planning and the history of orthodontics. Throughout their week, they had the honor to study under Dr. James Vaden and a highly-skilled and caring faculty of orthodontists around the world. The course teaches the critical fundamentals of orthodontics and should be encouraged by  orthodontic residency programs globally. We are proud to have three more residents who have returned with certificates in this advanced course.

Visit to Dr. Foley’s Office

On October 4 and 5, the second-year and third-year residents had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Dan Foley’s office in Glade Springs, West Virginia. The residents had a tour of his practices in Beckley and Lewisburg while shadowing him and his staff for the day. Dr. Foley shared some great clinical tips and practice management advice. After a busy day at the office, Dr. Foley   generously provided a wonderful dinner at his home. The residents would like to thank Dr. Foley for his generosity and extend our appreciation for his continued support of our residency program. We’re all looking forward to coming back next year!