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Preclinical complete dentures curriculum survey.
Behnoush Rashedi1, Vicki C Petropoulos
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Philadelphia 19104, USA. brashedi@pobox.upenn.edu
Summary
Preclinical complete denture courses show variation in dental schools, with most using traditional methods. Few schools integrate new technologies or newer denture teeth in their curriculum.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Preclinical complete denture courses are fundamental in dental education.
- Understanding current teaching methodologies is crucial for curriculum development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey U.S. dental schools regarding preclinical complete denture courses.
- To determine curricular structure, teaching philosophies, and techniques.
Main Methods:
- A 2001 survey was sent to 54 U.S. dental schools.
- 43 schools (80% response rate) returned completed questionnaires.
- Data analysis included computation of mean, median, and range for various parameters.
Main Results:
- The mean student-to-faculty ratio was 12:1, with a mean of 74 laboratory hours and 28 lecture hours.
- Most schools (84%) have prosthodontists teaching the course, and 58% use the Hanau semiadjustable articulator.
- Facebow records are used by 84% of schools, while only 28% incorporate new technologies.
Conclusions:
- Preclinical complete denture education programs exhibit variability among dental schools.
- A significant majority of schools agree on certain teaching topics and techniques.
- Limited adoption of new technologies and newer denture teeth was observed.