TMD & Orofacial Pain Certificate

This program provides an opportunity to acquire clinical assessment and treatment skills for Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and Orofacial Pain, within the context of graduate education that focuses on the acquisition of research skills and a scientific knowledge base.

FALL 2026 ENROLLMENT | Applications accepted July 1 - December 1, 2025

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Program Director:
Yoly M. Gonzalez-Stucker, DDS, MS, MPH

Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, 355 Squire Hall

About the Program Admissions Requirements How to Apply Faculty and Curriculum Cost and Funding

About the Program

This program leads to a certificate of advanced study in Temporomandibular Disorders & Orofacial Pain. 

The opportunity exists for dual-enrollment in the Oral Sciences, MS program.  Candidates must apply to each program separately by posted deadlines. Acceptance into each program is a separate process. Visit our Oral Sciences, MS web page to learn more about this program.

The focus of our clinical program is to provide each resident with experience in managing a variety of orofacial pain conditions, focusing on diagnosis and interdisciplinary management.

Orofacial Pain is recognized by the American Dental Association as a dental specialty area.  Our 24-month advanced certificate program in Temporomandibular Disorders and Orofacial Pain is also recognized by the New York State Education Department.  Details on CODA accreditation are provided below.

Program Goals

 Prepare graduates to:

  1. Care for patients with TMD and other orofacial pain disorders. 
  2. Understand the structural, biological and behavioral factors underlying pain in general and orofacial pain specifically.
  3. Interact with other health care professionals in order to facilitate the patients' health care.
  4. Utilize critical thinking analysis and evidence based care in treatment decisions and continuous quality improvement.
  5. Conduct research in TMD, orofacial pain, or in a closely related field.
  6. Teach clinical care of TMD & orofacial pain patients.
  7. Utilize the values of professional ethics, patient center care and understanding cultural diversity and inclusiveness in professional practice.

Why Choose Our Program

  • Experienced faculty, many who are involved in NIH funded research
  • Large patient practice
  • Multidisciplinary in nature
  • Our holistic approach of treatment
  • We practice cultural humility 

Accreditation

The program in Temporomandibular Disorders and Orofacial Pain is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of accredited without reporting requirements. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (312) 440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. The Commission’s web address is www.ada.org/en/coda.

Length of Program

The program length is 24 months of full-time attendance beginning August 1st, the first year. Combined programs may entail a longer period of matriculation depending on the chosen graduate program.  Students concurrent enrolled in a Master's program typically complete both programs within two years.

Acceptance into any research program is a separate process. VIsit our Oral Sciences, MS web page to learn more.

Learn more about the Oral Diagnostic Sciences Department

Note: Polices on bloodborne and infectious diseases are available to applicants and patients upon request.