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Identifying Gaps in Predoctoral Craniofacial Education
Catherine Bingham1, Linda Sangalli2, Kathryn Preston3
1Adams School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, USA.
Dentistry Journal
|June 25, 2025
Summary
Dental students report low confidence in managing patients with craniofacial differences (PCD). Enhanced curricula, including hands-on experience, are crucial for better preparing future dentists to care for PCD.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Craniofacial Anomalies
- Predoctoral Training
Background:
- Adequate preparation of dental school graduates for treating patients with craniofacial differences (PCD) is essential.
- Current predoctoral dental school curricula may have educational deficiencies in managing PCD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify educational gaps in predoctoral dental curricula concerning the management of PCD.
- To assess dental students' educational experiences, clinical encounters, and confidence in managing PCD.
Main Methods:
- An electronic survey was administered to predoctoral dental students nationwide.
- The survey assessed educational experiences, clinical encounters, and perceived knowledge and confidence in managing PCD.
Main Results:
- The most frequently taught didactic topic was diagnostic characteristics (77.1%).
- Students reported low confidence in managing craniofacial conditions, especially surgical treatment (30.1 ± 27.9).
- Hands-on clinical experience was identified as key to improving confidence.
Conclusions:
- Predoctoral dental students demonstrate insufficient confidence and understanding in managing PCD.
- Integrating targeted craniofacial education, particularly practical clinical experience, is vital for dental graduates.
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