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Predoctoral dental students' perceptions and experiences with prosthodontics.
Matilda Dhima1, Vicki C Petropoulos, Thomas J Salinas
1Division of Prosthetic and Esthetic Dentistry, Department of Dental Specialties, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Summary
Dental students perceive a high future need for prosthodontists but show low career interest due to factors like insufficient faculty and mentorship. Addressing these can boost recruitment in this dental specialty.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Prosthodontics Specialty Training
- Student Perceptions in Dentistry
Background:
- Understanding dental student perceptions is crucial for specialty recruitment.
- Prosthodontics is a critical dental specialty with evolving needs.
- Assessing student experiences informs educational strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate predoctoral and advanced standing dental student views on prosthodontics.
- Evaluate student experiences with mentorship and exposure to prosthodontics.
- Establish baseline perceptions of prosthodontics' impact on career and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Survey distributed to 494 dental students at the University of Pennsylvania.
- Data collected on perceptions and experiences with prosthodontics.
- 410 surveys analyzed using Chi Square and regression analyses.
Main Results:
- 83% response rate; 57% had positive initial prosthodontic exposure.
- 82% perceived a high future need for prosthodontists.
- Low ranking for salary, quality of life, and professional impact compared to other specialties.
Conclusions:
- Despite positive introductions and perceived need, few students pursue prosthodontics.
- Barriers include insufficient faculty, lack of mentorship, and misconceptions about income.
- Improving these areas may enhance prosthodontic career interest.
