A postgraduate dental training program for treatment of persons with disabilities

Educational aspects of a five-year project of postgraduate training in dentistry for patients with severe disabilities are described. Courses consisted of two weeks of didactic and up to six weeks of clinical instruction. Participating dentists, dental hygienists, and assistants demonstrated significant post-course gains in cognitive knowledge and confidence. Follow-up evaluations indicated that more than 75 percent actively apply their training, particularly those in academic dentistry. The nationwide response to the program indicates a demand for advanced training of this type.