What I wish I'd learned at dental school

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Continuing Professional Development

Background:

• Contemporary dental school programs face criticism regarding graduate preparedness.
• Concerns exist about whether dental graduates meet current practice standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey dentists' views on deficiencies in their dental school training.
• To identify areas for improvement in current dental education programs.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based questionnaire was distributed to Fellows and Members of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK).
• Respondents provided feedback on their dental education history and curriculum content.
• Opinions were gathered on desired inclusions/enhancements for modern dental programs.

Main Results:

• A majority of respondents reported insufficient training in surgical endodontics, conscious sedation, and root surface debridement.
• Key areas for inclusion in new programs were business/practice management and communication skills.
• Respondents also called for increased clinical time and experience.

Conclusions:

• Dental education requires a stronger focus on non-clinical subjects like business and communication skills.
• Clinical training needs refinement and expansion in areas such as exodontia and endodontics.
• Findings are relevant for educators and those supporting young dental practitioners.