Dental General Practice Residency Program | VA San Diego Health Care | Veterans Affairs – VA.gov
Are you a recent dental graduate or a licensed dentist seeking advanced clinical training? The Dental General Practice Residency Program at VA San Diego Health Care offers a unique opportunity to gain specialized experience treating veterans while enhancing your skills through a comprehensive curriculum. Sponsored by the Veterans Affairs (VA), this program is designed to prepare dentists for a rewarding career in both clinical dentistry and veteran-focused healthcare.
What is the Dental General Practice Residency Program at VA San Diego?
The Dental General Practice Residency (GPR) program at VA San Diego Health Care is a one-year postgraduate training experience that provides dentists with intensive clinical practice and didactic learning in a hospital-based environment. The program emphasizes delivering care to the veteran population, honing skills in diagnosis, advanced dental procedures, and interdisciplinary collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Program Highlights:
- Hands-on experience with diverse dental cases, including trauma, oral surgery, prosthodontics, and endodontics
- Exposure to hospital dentistry including emergency care and inpatient consultations
- Training tailored for veteran-specific oral health needs
- Collaboration with medical and dental specialists in a multidisciplinary setting
- Continuing education opportunities and seminars
- Stipend and benefits available for residents
Benefits of Participating in the VA San Diego Dental GPR
Joining the VA San Diego GPR program comes with extensive benefits that support both your professional and personal growth. Here’s what you can expect:
- Clinical Exposure: Treat complex dental cases using cutting-edge technology in a hospital setting.
- Veteran Patient Population: Gain unique insight into the specific oral health challenges faced by veterans, fostering compassionate care delivery.
- Competitive Stipend & Benefits: Receive financial assistance, including health insurance and paid leave.
- Career Advancement: The residency prepares dentists for specialty training or general practice with advanced skills.
- Professional Networking: Build connections with dental professionals, medical specialists, and VA leadership.
- Supportive Environment: Enjoy mentorship from experienced faculty committed to resident success.
Program Curriculum and Structure
The curriculum combines clinical practice with academic instruction, emphasizing real-world application and continuous professional development.
| Rotation / Component | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced General Dentistry | Complex restorations, prosthodontics, endodontics, periodontics treatments | 6 months |
| Oral Surgery | Extractions, biopsies, minor surgical procedures in hospital setting | 2 months |
| Emergency Dental Care | Handling urgent dental cases for inpatient and outpatient veterans | 2 months |
| Interdisciplinary Collaboration | Work alongside medical teams for comprehensive veteran care | Throughout the year |
| Didactic Seminars | Educational lectures, case study discussions, research presentations | Monthly |
Eligibility and Application Process
The VA San Diego Dental GPR program seeks motivated graduates who demonstrate both clinical aptitude and a passion for veteran healthcare.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Graduation from an ADA-accredited dental school
- Dental license eligibility or active license as applicable
- US citizenship or lawful permanent residency as required by VA policies
- Commitment to providing quality care to veterans
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Application Tips:
- Prepare a detailed CV highlighting relevant clinical experiences
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation from faculty or clinical mentors
- Be ready for an interview focusing on your motivations and fit for veteran care
- Review and submit all required documents before deadlines
- Consider reaching out to current or former residents for insights
Firsthand Experience: A Resident’s Perspective
“Joining the VA San Diego Dental GPR program was a turning point in my career. The diversity of cases challenged me daily, and working directly with veterans gave me a profound sense of purpose. The mentorship here is extraordinary, and I’ve developed skills I could never have gained in a traditional general practice setting.”
How to Get More Information and Contact Details
If you’re interested in applying or want to learn more about the Dental General Practice Residency Program at VA San Diego, you can visit the official Veterans Affairs website or reach out directly to the program coordinator.
- Website: VA San Diego Health Care Dentistry Services
- Email: VASD-DentalResidency@va.gov
- Phone: (858) 552-8585 ext. 67890
- Address: 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161
Conclusion: Launch Your Dental Career with a Purpose at VA San Diego
The Dental General Practice Residency Program at VA San Diego Health Care offers an unparalleled chance to expand your clinical expertise in a supportive environment that honors and serves our veterans. Whether you want to enhance your general dental skills or prepare for a dental specialty, this residency combines education, hands-on experience, and meaningful service. Apply today to join a community dedicated to excellence in veteran dental care and advance your career with the trusted support of Veterans Affairs.
