AEGD programs: why now, why more?

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Postgraduate Dental Training
• General Dentistry

Background:

• Increasing number of dental schools and graduates in the U.S.
• Growing interest in postgraduate training for new dentists
• Need for advanced skills to address complex modern dentistry

Purpose of the Study:

• Examine motivations of dental students entering AEGD programs
• Advocate for the expansion of AEGD programs
• Highlight AEGD's role in transforming dental education

Main Methods:

• Online survey distributed to current AEGD residents
• Investigated reasons for selecting AEGD postgraduate opportunities
• Position paper analysis of AEGD program benefits

Main Results:

• AEGD programs are a preferred route for additional dental training
• Residents seek to deepen understanding of complex dental procedures
• AEGD programs offer valuable experience before independent practice

Conclusions:

• AEGD programs are crucial for preparing dentists for practice
• Expansion of AEGD programs is recommended
• AEGD training can address critical issues like access to care and licensure