Current state of training for implant dentistry in Europe: a questionnaire-based survey

Thanks to their predictably high-success rates, dental implants have gained a firm place among the treatment options for edentulous and partially dentate patients in state-of-the-art dentistry. As a result, the need for high-level basic and continued training in implant dentistry is increasing. The present questionnaire-based survey was designed to shed light on the current state of implant training, any points of criticism and the need for a standardized training format in Europe.

Between July and November 2006, a 14-item questionnaire was sent to 37 opinion leaders in 29 European countries. The questionnaires sent back were processed electronically and evaluated statistically.

82.8% of the participating opinion leaders responded. In the majority of the participating countries (87.5%), courses are funded by the industry. Most of the courses (43%) are confined to a few days and mainly consist of lectures in theory and hands-on training. Of the attendees, most are general dental practitioners (29%). These perform as many implant treatments as specialized dentists. In 83% of the participating countries, a standardized certified training format in implant dentistry is considered to be required.

As implant dentistry is increasingly shifting from competence centers to general dental practitioners in the practice setting, standardized training concluded with a certified diploma has become necessary. This would provide for more transparency and for disseminating state-of-the-art knowledge independent of the implant-manufacturing industry.