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Geriatric dentistry in the predoctoral curriculum
J Moshman1, G B Warren, D H Blandford
1Moshman Associates, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland.
Journal of Dental Education
|October 1, 1985
Summary
Geriatric dentistry education in U.S. dental schools has significantly advanced since 1979. Curricula now feature more dedicated courses, integrating social and behavioral aspects alongside clinical topics for older adults.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Geriatric dentistry education is crucial for addressing the oral health needs of an aging population.
- Previous studies highlight the evolving landscape of dental curricula concerning geriatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current status of geriatric dentistry within U.S. dental school curricula.
- To compare current educational practices with a 1979 benchmark study.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to U.S. dental schools.
- Data collected focused on the structure and content of geriatric dentistry education.
Main Results:
- Significant growth in formalized didactic courses for geriatric dentistry was observed.
- There is a decreased reliance on integrating geriatric content into existing courses.
- Clinical topics are increasingly supplemented with social and behavioral aspects of geriatric patient care.
Conclusions:
- U.S. dental schools have substantially enhanced their geriatric dentistry programs.
- The trend indicates a move towards specialized, comprehensive education for treating older dental patients.