An analysis of the supply of and demand for continuing education in geriatric dentistry

Continuing education directors at 158 sites were surveyed regarding their recent experience with geriatric dentistry courses. Of the 116 returns cited, 86 recorded offering courses with a total enrollment of 4,559 students. The courses tended to be of the survey type using a lecture format. Most directors thought that practitioner demand for such courses fell short of their need for education. Several suggestions emanated from this project for improving course attendance. They included: targeting courses to specific clinical areas; providing separate courses for each segment of the geriatric population; and educating both elders and dentists regarding the appropriateness of dental care for the elderly patient.