**Official 2025 Ortho Pass/Interviews/Match/Non- match**

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.
They will try to have all emails out by 10am ET
 

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They said 12 and 10am last year too but it was earlier. And don't they say something like no later than 10am? Best of luck to all
 
Name of Ortho Program: Program in the west
Dental School Attended: Program in the west
Year Earned DMD/DDS: Graduation 2025
International Student (yes/no): No
NBDE Part I/II scores: INBDE Pass
GRE Score: 152/150/4.5
Class Rank: P/F school
Match/Non-Match: Match Only
Externship(s)/where: None
Research: Total of 3 research projects with presentations at my dental school's research day + presenting at ADEA annual session and AADOCR. Published 1 of them
Extracurriculars: My school had a lot of volunteering opportunities so I did not do much outside of that. I had hobbies outside of school.

I applied to over 20 schools. Im not gonna lie, that may not be something everyone can do, but I was lucky enough to be able to. However, I only got 2 interviews.
I would highly recommend to take the chance, even if you dont feel like youre going to get in because thats how i felt based on my GRE scores and the fact that I had no GPA.
Get involved in things that really interest you because that is how you will shine on your application and therefore in the interview. The smartest person doesn't always get in. But the most interesting person will!!
 
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Program Matched: Paid California Program
Dental School Attended: Southeastern U.S. Dental School
Graduation Year: 2025
International Student: No
NBDE Part I/II Scores: INBDE Pass
GRE Score: 168/ 157/ 5
Class Rank: (Top 20%)
GPA: 3.83
Match Type: Match Only
Externships: Texas A&M: Received an interview and ranked as #2.
Research Experience:
  • Undergraduate: Two projects with publications and presentations (college of medicine)
  • Dental School: Four projects (three orthodontics-related), including a presentation at AADOCR. Participated in the research track, which allowed dedicated time for research every other week.
Extracurriculars:
  • Leadership roles in both orthodontic and non-orthodontic organizations during undergrad and dental school.
  • tons of volunteering including mission trips.
  • Worked 2 jobs throughout all four years of dental school.
Application Overview:
  • Programs Applied To: 28
  • Interview Invites: 18
  • Interviews Attended: 14
  • Programs Ranked: 13
Reflection:
First cycle, and I am incredibly grateful to have matched into my #1 choice! Coming from the south east, I was under the impression that California is impossible to get into, especially for the paid program! This journey was not without its challenges, and I want to share some hope for anyone navigating this process.

Statistically, I wasn’t the most competitive candidate. My own program director told me my chances of matching were slim and suggested I settle for programs with higher tuition. He even removed my top three programs from my list, believing I was wasting my time applying to them. But I trusted my instincts, applied anyway, and not only got interviews at all three but fell in love with all 3 during the process!

Through it all, I focused on presenting my authentic self, showcasing my passion for orthodontics, and aligning my goals with the values of the programs I interviewed with. What I learned is that programs truly take a holistic approach. Your personality, fit, and vision for your career can matter just as much—if not more—than the numbers on a page. When I left my #1 program, I felt confident, not because I thought I had "perfect" stats, but because I had shown them who I am and why I belong there.

To everyone who matched, congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone! 🎉 For those who didn’t, please don’t lose hope. Your time is coming, and this process is about perseverance, determination, and believing in your unique journey. Keep pushing forward, and trust that the right opportunity is waiting for you.

It’s been an honor sharing this thread with all of you! ❤️ If anyone from future cycles has questions, I’d be more than happy to help and support you in any way I can. 😊
 
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hopefullyfutureortho said:
Program Matched: Paid California Program
Dental School Attended: Southeastern U.S. Dental School
Graduation Year: 2025
International Student: No
NBDE Part I/II Scores: INBDE Pass
GRE Score: 168/ 157/ 5
Class Rank: (Top 20%)
GPA: 3.83
Match Type: Match Only
Externships: Texas A&M: Received an interview and ranked as #2.
Research Experience:
  • Undergraduate: Two projects with publications and presentations (college of medicine)
  • Dental School: Four projects (three orthodontics-related), including a presentation at AADOCR. Participated in the research track, which allowed dedicated time for research every other week.
Extracurriculars:
  • Leadership roles in both orthodontic and non-orthodontic organizations during undergrad and dental school.
  • tons of volunteering including mission trips.
  • Worked 2 jobs throughout all four years of dental school.
Application Overview:
  • Programs Applied To: 28
  • Interview Invites: 18
  • Interviews Attended: 14
  • Programs Ranked: 13
Reflection:
First cycle, and I am incredibly grateful to have matched into my #1 choice! Coming from the south east, I was under the impression that California is impossible to get into, especially for the paid program! This journey was not without its challenges, and I want to share some hope for anyone navigating this process.

Statistically, I wasn’t the most competitive candidate. My own program director told me my chances of matching were slim and suggested I settle for programs with higher tuition. He even removed my top three programs from my list, believing I was wasting my time applying to them. But I trusted my instincts, applied anyway, and not only got interviews at all three but fell in love with all 3 during the process!

Through it all, I focused on presenting my authentic self, showcasing my passion for orthodontics, and aligning my goals with the values of the programs I interviewed with. What I learned is that programs truly take a holistic approach. Your personality, fit, and vision for your career can matter just as much—if not more—than the numbers on a page. When I left my #1 program, I felt confident, not because I thought I had "perfect" stats, but because I had shown them who I am and why I belong there.

To everyone who matched, congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone! 🎉 For those who didn’t, please don’t lose hope. Your time is coming, and this process is about perseverance, determination, and believing in your unique journey. Keep pushing forward, and trust that the right opportunity is waiting for you.

It’s been an honor sharing this thread with all of you! ❤️ If anyone from future cycles has questions, I’d be more than happy to help and support you in any way I can. 😊
Click to expand...
Can I PM you?
 
To everyone who didn’t match, don’t be discouraged!! Ortho is so so soo competitive as we all know. This was my third cycle and I was able to match to my #1 so where there’s a will, there’s a way! Stay positive and stay persistent.

Take some time now while everything is still fresh in your mind and really reflect on why you think you did not match this cycle and see how you can become a better applicant in the future if you still want to go this route. And if not, that’s perfectly fine!! You’re all amazing applicants and that’s why you interviewed to begin with. Dentistry is a great career and you should be proud regardless!
 
mouthmechanic258 said:
To everyone who didn’t match, don’t be discouraged!! Ortho is so so soo competitive as we all know. This was my third cycle and I was able to match to my #1 so where there’s a will, there’s a way! Stay positive and stay persistent.

Take some time now while everything is still fresh in your mind and really reflect on why you think you did not match this cycle and see how you can become a better applicant in the future if you still want to go this route. And if not, that’s perfectly fine!! You’re all amazing applicants and that’s why you interviewed to begin with. Dentistry is a great career and you should be proud regardless!
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What would you say were your biggest improvements from the first cycle to now? Im still a year or two away from applying, but I want to start planning now!
 
For people who matched the second time round, did you apply to the same programs or different programs? Did you get interviews to the same programs the second time round?

How do you get involved in research if you’re far removed from school? Would taking six months off for research and shadowing be worthwhile?

I feel like programs did not take me seriously - and that’s fair, I’m eight years out with a heavy OS CV. One program straight asked why I’m not applying to OS. To me it highlights my clinical growth, but should I just get rid of anything OS related?
 
Name of Ortho Program: Program in SW
Dental School Attended: Program in SW
Year Earned DMD/DDS: Graduation 2025
International Student (yes/no): No
NBDE Part I/II scores: INBDE Pass
GRE Score: 160V / 166Q / 4.0W
Class Rank: P/F school
Match/Non-Match: Match Only
Externship(s)/where: One day of shadowing at four programs (located in the South, Southwest, and West regions)
Research: 3 research projects; one of which I presented at AADOCR (talk), school's research day (poster), and published
Extracurriculars: Leadership positions in school orgs, TA role, employment during school, and very limited outside community service

I know this thread has been quiet this year, but I wanted to share my experience for future applicants who might find it helpful.

I applied to 14 schools, received 3 interview invitations (2 of which came a couple of weeks after the initial rounds of invitations), attended all 3 interviews, and matched with my first choice.

There are so many things to do or involve yourself in during dental school, but my approach has always been to focus solely on activities that align with my passions or areas I genuinely want to explore. Avoid "resume padding" - it's far more engaging in interviews when you can confidently discuss each item on your resume with authentic enthusiasm.

From my perspective, program directors are looking for residents who are a) well-rounded, b) driven yet teachable, and c) a good cultural fit to ensure an enjoyable 2-3 years of residency for everyone. Be yourself, stay authentic, and wear a smile!

BTW - I received the email at 8:51 a.m. ET, so try not to stress too early in the morning haha.
 
Chicago_predental said:
What would you say were your biggest improvements from the first cycle to now? Im still a year or two away from applying, but I want to start planning now!
Click to expand...
Quick background is I graduated in 2023 and have applied every application cycle I was eligible to. I think my biggest improvement came from being in private practice for a year and polishing how I present myself and my professionalism in the interview. I think this is the most important aspect because everyone is there because they look great on paper but handling yourself like a Doctor vs a dental student is very different and I think programs look for that. There are those programs that have their sights on specific applicants coming in, but I think you can still match if you set yourself apart during the interview.

1st cycle: 2 interviews (1 was at my home program)
2nd cycle: 3 interviews
3rd cycle: 4 interviews (1 repeat from 2nd app cycle and this is where I matched)

I will say I don’t think programs don’t traditionally interview you twice from ppl I’ve spoken to and my own experiences because through 3 cycles I only had 1 repeat program out of 7. I will say also did not apply to my home program except for the 1st cycle because I was looking for something different, but that is traditionally the program people have the best chances at.

EDIT: I’ve been getting a lot of messages about my journey so I’ll address them here.

NOTHING changed on my application except obviously now being a dentist with 1yr experience. No extracurriculars. I reached out to all the programs I interviewed at previously and still did not get invited again except once. Maintain a strong mindset and BE CONFIDENT IN YOURSELF!! I know this is hard after not matching. I felt terrible but every cycle is new so dont carry your trauma into the next cycle. You are worthy, best advice I can give is be authentic and carry yourself in a professional manner.
 
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mouthmechanic258 said:
Quick background is I graduated in 2023 and have applied every application cycle I was eligible to. I think my biggest improvement came from being in private practice for a year and polishing how I present myself and my professionalism in the interview. I think this is the most important aspect because everyone is there because they look great on paper but handling yourself like a Doctor vs a dental student is very different and I think programs look for that. There are those programs that have their sights on specific applicants coming in, but I think you can still match if you set yourself apart during the interview.

1st cycle: 2 interviews (1 was at my home program)
2nd cycle: 3 interviews
3rd cycle: 4 interviews (1 repeat from 2nd app cycle and this is where I matched)

I will say I don’t think programs don’t traditionally interview you twice from ppl I’ve spoken to and my own experiences because through 3 cycles I only had 1 repeat program out of 7. I will say also did not apply to my home program except for the 1st cycle because I was looking for something different, but that is traditionally the program people have the best chances at.

EDIT: I’ve been getting a lot of messages about my journey so I’ll address them here.

NOTHING changed on my application except obviously now being a dentist with 1yr experience. No extracurriculars. I reached out to all the programs I interviewed at previously and still did not get invited again except once. Maintain a strong mindset and BE CONFIDENT IN YOURSELF!! I know this is hard after not matching. I felt terrible but every cycle is new so dont carry your trauma into the next cycle. You are worthy, best advice I can give is be authentic and carry yourself in a professional manner.
Click to expand...
Thank you for your info, I’m considering applying next cycle or maybe the year after next. So this helps a lot! Do you mind sharing your stats from dental school?
 
Dentistry.masterd said:
Thank you for your info, I’m considering applying next cycle or maybe the year after next. So this helps a lot! Do you mind sharing your stats from dental school?
Click to expand...
Name of Ortho Program: Program in Mid-Atlantic
Dental School Attended: Program in SE
Year Earned DMD/DDS: Graduation 2023
International Student (yes/no): No
NBDE Part I/II scores: NBDE Pass
GRE Score: 157 / 158 / 4.0
Class Rank: top 25%
Match/Non-Match: both
Externship(s)/where: One day of shadowing at 2 programs
Research: 2 research projects in dental school neither were published
Extracurriculars: Several leadership positions in school orgs, work study during dental school, and several community service goes

Application Overview:
  • Programs Applied To: ~30
  • Interview Invites: 4 ( 1 non-match)
  • Interviews Attended: 4
  • Programs Ranked: 3
Feel free to PM me if you want any advice!
 
Unfortunately, I didn't match into a program this year. It is my first cycle applying, so there's always next year, and I know Ortho is super competitive, so it still might take another few cycles. I managed to get 4 interviews, and received positive feedback in all of them, so there must be something I'm lacking compared to other applicants. If it's relevant, I'm an international student, which I know is a more competitive playing field. Would it be alright to reach out to the program directors I interviewed with to ask for feedback on how to improve myself as a candidate or is that seen as unprofessional?
 
Dedicated-ortho said:
Unfortunately, I didn't match into a program this year. It is my first cycle applying, so there's always next year, and I know Ortho is super competitive, so it still might take another few cycles. I managed to get 4 interviews, and received positive feedback in all of them, so there must be something I'm lacking compared to other applicants. If it's relevant, I'm an international student, which I know is a more competitive playing field. Would it be alright to reach out to the program directors I interviewed with to ask for feedback on how to improve myself as a candidate or is that seen as unprofessional?
Click to expand...
I think it’s a fantastic idea. Before I submitted my application, I randomly reached out to a program director (not at the school I matched to, but one where I later got an interview), and he spent over three hours on the phone with me! He helped me narrow down schools that aligned with my goals and shared incredible insights about the process and how PDs think and decide. Program directors are educators at heart, and many genuinely want to help applicants who show they’re teachable, humble, and dedicated. Taking the time to connect with them can be incredibly valuable. I genuinely believe I received an invite for this PD's program because of this interaction and it never hurts to go out of your way to improve yourself.
 
dmdrocks said:
What was the biggest change you did when you applied for the third time? I applied twice and got 10+ interviews each time, didn't match.
Click to expand...
Sounds like your application is very impressive! Maybe you just need to practice interviewing. Before my interviews I did a mock interview with one of my friends who is an emergency surgery program director. It was the hardest interview I had!!! 😅 but it was great to have feedback, what answers were good, what needed polishing, how to be professional but also friendly, approachable and easy to talk to. He said the biggest thing he looks at in an applicant is if they are someone he would want to hang out with for 4 years. I kept that in mind and in my interviews I made an effort to know a little something about all the faculty so I could bring up and discuss some of their interests as well. I talked about music, soccer, wine and lots of other random stuff in my interviews! Just anything to help form a personal connection with my interviewers.
 
What does everyone think about hospital vs university-based programs? I'm trying to understand the differences. Which is better?
 
When choosing an orthodontic residency, the financial differences between university-based and hospital-based programs are something to seriously consider. University-based programs, like Columbia in NYC, can cost upwards of $400,000 in tuition, while hospital-based programs, such as Montefiore, BronxCare, St. Barnabas, Maimonides, MedStar, and University of Rochester, typically pay residents a salary. Some hospital programs deduct tuition, but you still end up with a net positive.

The trade-off with hospital programs is that you’re often required to be on-call, which can be demanding. For many, though, avoiding additional debt makes it worth it. On the flip side, university-based programs generally require a hefty tuition, though there are exceptions like UCLA and UCSF, which are university-based programs but also provide residents with a full salary and benefits. Of course hospital-based / paid programs are generally much more competitive to get into.

At the end of the day, both types of programs will give you the training and certification you need to practice orthodontics. However, something to consider is the financial impact, including any additional debt and interest, and how that fits into your long-term plans.
 
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Did anyone get gifts for their LORS? I was thinking of just giving a small box of baked goods and a handwritten thank you letter but not sure how the etiquette is in residencies?
 
Orthohopeful2025 said:
Did anyone get gifts for their LORS? I was thinking of just giving a small box of baked goods and a handwritten thank you letter but not sure how the etiquette is in residencies?
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I sent my recommenders a box of chocolates and a thank you note!
 
Will be applying this next cycle, is it necessary to have a LOR from ortho faculty at your school? AT my school we don't have much interaction with them
 
SoCalDentChick said:
Will be applying this next cycle, is it necessary to have a LOR from ortho faculty at your school? AT my school we don't have much interaction with them
Click to expand...
It might not be necessary but that might be the most impactful and relevant letter
 
Is there anyone out there who graduated dental school 4+ years ago AND successfully matched this cycle? If so, any advice/tips/thoughts on what you think helped you be successful? Of the handful of other interviewees that I connected with at interviews with who were in a similar boat (practicing 4+ years), only one matched that I know of. Just looking to find some insight and hope from other "less traditional" applicants!
 
Essix12 said:
Is there anyone out there who graduated dental school 4+ years ago AND successfully matched this cycle? If so, any advice/tips/thoughts on what you think helped you be successful? Of the handful of other interviewees that I connected with at interviews with who were in a similar boat (practicing 4+ years), only one matched that I know of. Just looking to find some insight and hope from other "less traditional" applicants!
Click to expand...
I graduated 7+ years ago, applied this year and luckily matched. I only had one interview, so I don't have much to share about having an exceptional application, but feel free to message me with any questions. And to everyone who preached "you only need one," thank you. I feel like I read that message everyday to keep my confidence up. You can do it!
 
OrthoWannabe3 said:
I graduated 7+ years ago, applied this year and luckily matched. I only had one interview, so I don't have much to share about having an exceptional application, but feel free to message me with any questions. And to everyone who preached "you only need one," thank you. I feel like I read that message everyday to keep my confidence up. You can do it!
Click to expand...
I also graduated 7+ years ago, had 3 interviews this cycle, and didn't match. After contacting the program directors, one was very candid with me. I was told I am extremely qualified, everyone loved my personality, but was afraid I wasn't "teachable" because I'm an "experienced clinician". I don't get it.
 
2016 grad, six interviews, did not match.

From the non-trad residents I met, almost all had to apply multiple cycles. It’s frustrating, but it is what it is.
 
I'm a current third year dental student applying to ortho next cycle. Is it necessary to have an advisor guide you through the process or do most people apply on their own?
Also, for students that just went through this cycle, about how many supplemental essays does each program require? And what's the best way to answer "why our program?" without cliche facts you could find on their website?
 
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chocrock79 said:
I also graduated 7+ years ago, had 3 interviews this cycle, and didn't match. After contacting the program directors, one was very candid with me. I was told I am extremely qualified, everyone loved my personality, but was afraid I wasn't "teachable" because I'm an "experienced clinician". I don't get it.
Click to expand...
Ugh I’m sorry I hate that they think that :/ I was worried that might be some people’s take, so when I was asked “why should we pick you” my line was “I have a lot of experience but I’m still very teachable. I’ve worked in a lot of different clinics and under different leadership styles, so I’m good at being adaptable and learning the most out of every situation I’m put in”.
 
Essix12 said:
Is there anyone out there who graduated dental school 4+ years ago AND successfully matched this cycle? If so, any advice/tips/thoughts on what you think helped you be successful? Of the handful of other interviewees that I connected with at interviews with who were in a similar boat (practicing 4+ years), only one matched that I know of. Just looking to find some insight and hope from other "less traditional" applicants!
Click to expand...
I’m curious how many programs you applied to?
 
How important is it to have a letter of recommendation come from an ortho faculty member? I personally feel much closer to some other faculty members at my school, and feel like the ortho faculty members may not offer the same level of insights as other faculty members.
 
ortho_prince2000 said:
I'm a current third year dental student applying to ortho next cycle. Is it necessary to have an advisor guide you through the process or do most people apply on their own?
Also, for students that just went through this cycle, about how many supplemental essays does each program require? And what's the best way to answer "why our program?" without cliche facts you could find on their website?
Click to expand...
Here is what I can tell you as someone who got in this cycle. If you have the option to talk to either an upperclassman who was accepted or an advisor to help guide you though the process it would certainly help. However, I basically applied on my own and did my own research to figure out the process. I also took tips from current residents on my externships. I did not have any supplemental essays for the programs I applied to (34) but there were a few, such as NSU, that have supplemental questions to answer in the PASS application. The best way to answer WHY our program is only if you visited the program. Personally, I chose not to apply to the 2-3 schools out of 36 on my list that asked me that question unless I actually visited on an externship because I felt that anything I said would just be a made up answer that everyone else would be putting. There is no way to know anything of sufficient value about the program unless you know someone there or visit. But that is just the decision I made because I was already applying to so many programs. Unless you have a specific reason to want to be in that area where the school is for family, etc. Then you could write about that, but that did not apply to me.
 
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ortho_prince2000 said:
How important is it to have a letter of recommendation come from an ortho faculty member? I personally feel much closer to some other faculty members at my school, and feel like the ortho faculty members may not offer the same level of insights as other faculty members.
Click to expand...
It is not critical, I was accepted without it, but i would imagine it to be a very very big help. My Ortho faculty for some reason felt it a "conflict of interest" for him to write me a LOR. Even though we were close and worked on ortho cases in my D3 year together. But if you can get it, and they can write something personal and supportive for you, then absolutely it will help you. It can't hurt. But also pick people/faculty who know you and who you have built a relationship with. My general dentistry preceptor asked me to write something for him that discussed what I had learned from him this year and about cases we worked on together and he would use that to write my LOR. You want someone like that to write you LOR, not someone who will just say "he/she is a nice person and good candidate for ortho school"
 
SoCalDentChick said:
Will be applying this next cycle, is it necessary to have a LOR from ortho faculty at your school? AT my school we don't have much interaction with them
Click to expand...
No, it is not. I was accepted without one. You want people who you are close to and can truly write something personal to you in your LOR, rather than someone you don't know well, writing something universal that could be about any student, just because they are an ortho.
 
niko472 said:
For people who matched the second time round, did you apply to the same programs or different programs? Did you get interviews to the same programs the second time round?

How do you get involved in research if you’re far removed from school? Would taking six months off for research and shadowing be worthwhile?

I feel like programs did not take me seriously - and that’s fair, I’m eight years out with a heavy OS CV. One program straight asked why I’m not applying to OS. To me it highlights my clinical growth, but should I just get rid of anything OS related?
Click to expand...
I think your personal statement should highlight your transition from interest in OS to Ortho and use that as an opportunity to explain it and highlight your growth. Understanding all aspects of dentistry are important to being a great specialist and I think that if you spin it correctly, you can highlight that as a huge advantage in your resume, rather than a negative. If someone asks you why not apply to OS, that is your golden opportunity to give them a beautifully crafted answer as to why your interests have shifted and turn a maybe negative, into a huge positive. Also, being 8 years out of school, no way I would expect to be involved in research. I think your biggest advantage would be to do as much Ortho CE as you can, and highlight that on your resume (Spear, Mastering Orthodontics) and show a real commitment to the specialty, rather than it seeming like you randomly decided one day to apply to ortho.
 
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Hi! Current D3 here studying for my GRE. Could anyone offer some insight about what scores are "good" scores for ortho? From what I've heard, some schools really couldn't care less and some really value very high scores. Would anyone be willing to share what their programs' opinions are?
 
sdr1234* said:
Hi! Current D3 here studying for my GRE. Could anyone offer some insight about what scores are "good" scores for ortho? From what I've heard, some schools really couldn't care less and some really value very high scores. Would anyone be willing to share what their programs' opinions are?
Click to expand...
The general consensus is aim for 155 on each section and 4 on the writing.

Only UMKC and maybe Colorado have hard set minimums. UMKC even mentioned theirs on interview day (155/section). I attended six interviews and it was never mentioned elsewhere.

Don’t think any school values high scores - it’s great, but won’t be the thing to get you an interview. Know plenty of residents who did very poorly on the GRE, like sub 150.
 
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