Advanced predoctoral implant program at UIC: description and qualitative analysis

Area of Science:

• Dental education
• Oral surgery
• Implant dentistry

Background:

• Predoctoral dental curricula often prioritize restorative over surgical aspects of implant dentistry.
• There is a need for enhanced predoctoral training in surgical implant placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the University of Illinois at Chicago's Advanced Predoctoral Implant Program (APIP).
• To evaluate the impact of APIP on students' surgical skills, confidence, and interest in implant dentistry.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of an innovative Advanced Predoctoral Implant Program (APIP).
• Qualitative analysis of focus group discussions with students and faculty.
• Quantitative analysis of a student survey assessing perspectives on the APIP.

Main Results:

• Students reported significant benefits and intended to pursue further education in implant dentistry.
• The APIP positively influenced students' interest in surgically placing implants and their confidence in both surgical and restorative aspects.

Conclusions:

• APIP provides valuable surgical experience for predoctoral dental students.
• This program enhances students' readiness for implant dentistry in their future careers.