Three celebrate completion of postdoctoral orthodontics program
The West Virginia University School of Dentistry hosted a graduation celebration for three dentists who earned a Master of Science from the Department of Orthodontics.
The nearly three-year program offers advanced education to develop skilled practitioners who can easily transition into and manage a busy orthodontic practice.
Dr. MacKenzie Boyles-Horan and Dr. Tyler Crowe, both of West Virginia, along with Dr. Amer Shammaa, a native of Damascus, Syria, spent 34 months under the direction of Dr. Peter Ngan, department chair, and his faculty to prepare for the American Board of Orthodontics certification exams.
Boyles-Horan, of Fairmont, earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the WVU School of Dentistry and chose to continue her clinic and academic training there. “I had such a great experience in dental school at WVU and felt like I received a quality education,” reflected Boyles.
She had a trusted source who backed her decision. “My father completed his orthodontic training at WVU 11 years ago. He was always so grateful for Dr. Ngan and the education he received during his residency. That is one of the major reasons I chose WVU School of Dentistry.”
Dr. Shammaa, a graduate of Jordan University of Science and Technology and University of Minnesota, had his own family introduction to dentistry and orthodontics.
“My oldest brother, who is also an orthodontist, did his orthodontic residency at WVU School of Dentistry. I joined him for a continuing education course where I met Dr.Ngan. I visited the department and clinics. Since that time my goal was to be in this program.”
According to Crowe, of Princeton, the Department of Orthodontics at the School of Dentistry opened doors outside of West Virginia for him.
“The best part of my experience in the orthodontic graduate program was being able to travel and hear speakers from all over the country. There is something invaluable about hearing a multitude of perspectives on a certain topic and then having the chance to develop your own treatment philosophies through this educational process.”
Crowe, who also earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from WVU, intends to use what he has learned close to home.
“Fortunately there are many part-time faculty members who come into the school to teach the residents each month in addition to our full-time faculty. They choose topics ranging from treatment mechanics to practice management,” prefaced Crowe. “I have seen, first-hand, the impact that these orthodontists have had on their respective communities. I hope to create a similar impact in southern West Virginia or in southwest Virginia.”
The School of Dentistry is known for its close-knit, small class sizes, availability of faculty and opportunity to administer care to a number of patients.
“The best part of being in the orthodontic graduate program was the relationships I developed with my patients and co-residents. I have been able to learn so much from my co-residents, and we have shared so many great memories together. Throughout the past three years we were always there to support one another. For that I am forever grateful,” said Boyles-Horan.
Ngan and the Department of Orthodontics recognized the graduates at a dinner with their family, alumni, faculty and others at the Erickson Alumni Center.
Dr. Tom Borgia, dean of the School of Dentistry, offered opening remarks at the Tuesday, April 24 event. Traditionally, the graduates choose a faculty member as their keynote speaker. The 2018 address was delivered by Dr. Scott Little. Dr. Chris Martin, professor, is pictured with the graduates above.