Overview
The Advanced Standing Track for Internationally Trained Dentists (ASID) program at Ponce Health Sciences University is a 26-month pathway designed for internationally trained dentists seeking to earn a U.S. DMD degree. Following completion of a six-week Comprehensive Dental Foundations course, students enter directly into the third year of the DMD curriculum, where they receive advanced clinical training and prepare for dental practice in the United States. This innovative track includes private practice rotations in different sites across the Island of Puerto Rico.
Duration
26 Months
Mode
In-Person
Tuition
Resident $56,924/ Year
Non-Resident $73,880/ Year
Languages
English
Spanish
Objectives
Hands-On Clinical Experience in Real-World Settings
Private practices provide an ideal environment for dental students and internationally trained dentists to gain hands-on experience with a diverse range of patients and cases. Unlike academic clinics, which often follow strict protocols and schedules, private practices expose trainees to the fast-paced, variable nature of real-world dentistry. This helps build clinical confidence, time management skills, and adaptability.
Exposure to Business and Practice Management
A critical, yet often underemphasized, component of dental training is the business side of dentistry. By training in private practices, future dentists can observe and learn about billing, insurance, staffing, scheduling, and other essential administrative functions. This firsthand exposure is invaluable for those who plan to open or manage their own practice one day.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Practice
The transition from dental school or foreign training to independent practice in the U.S. can be daunting. Private practice externships or residency-style training programs offer a supportive, immersive bridge that allows trainees to refine their skills under the supervision of experienced dentists while also learning U.S.-specific standards of care, documentation, and patient communication.
Addressing Workforce Shortages and Expanding Access to Care
Private practice-based training programs, particularly in underserved or rural areas, can help expand access to dental care while simultaneously preparing for the next generation of dentists. Practices that participate in such programs contribute to the profession by mentoring new talent and helping address workforce shortages in their communities.
Mentorship and Professional Networking
Training within a private practice allows students and internationally trained dentists to develop close mentorship relationships with experienced practitioners. These mentors can offer guidance, career advice, and support that extends well beyond the training period. Additionally, working in private settings helps trainees build a professional network that may lead to job opportunities or partnerships.
Customized, Culturally Competent Training
Private practices serving specific populations—such as Hispanic or immigrant communities—are ideal training grounds for dentists who share that cultural background or want to serve those populations. This environment reinforces culturally competent care and provides training that is deeply relevant to the needs of the community.
Program Details