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Implementing a Public Health and Pediatric Dentistry Dual-Masters-Degree Training Program
Kimberly J Hammersmith1, David O Danesh1, Beau D Meyer1
1Division of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
Journal of Dental Education
|March 28, 2025
Summary
This program integrates public health training into pediatric dentistry, creating graduates skilled in both areas. These professionals now serve rural and underserved populations, addressing critical oral health needs.
Area of Science:
- Oral health research
- Public health policy
- Pediatric dentistry training
Background:
- Integrating public health principles into specialized dental training is crucial for addressing population oral health needs.
- Existing pediatric dentistry programs may lack a comprehensive public health component.
- A novel dual-degree approach can bridge this gap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the planning, implementation, and early outcomes of a unique dual-master’s degree track combining pediatric dentistry and public health (MS-MPH).
- To evaluate the success of the program in recruiting, retaining, and graduating trainees over its first five years.
- To assess the impact of the program on graduates' subsequent practice and service to underserved communities.
Main Methods:
- Secured necessary institutional approvals and accreditation for the dual-degree program.
- Developed a streamlined curriculum integrating didactic and clinical components of both disciplines.
- Implemented recruitment and retention strategies to ensure consistent trainee enrollment and completion.
- Tracked graduate placement and professional activities to evaluate program impact.
Main Results:
- The MS-MPH dual-degree track was successfully established and has consistently enrolled and graduated trainees since its inception.
- Graduates are actively applying their combined expertise in pediatric dentistry and public health.
- A significant number of graduates are working in rural settings or serving underserved populations, demonstrating program's reach.
Conclusions:
- The integration of robust public health training within a pediatric dentistry program is feasible and effective.
- The MS-MPH dual-degree track successfully produces highly qualified professionals equipped to address broad oral health challenges.
- The program's early success has facilitated expansion, indicating a strong demand and positive impact on public oral health initiatives.
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