Assessment of Knowledge Levels in a Blended-Learning CPD Programme in Periodontology: A Cross-Sectional Comparative...

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Dental Education
• Continuing Professional Development

Background:

• Periodontal diseases are prevalent, necessitating continuous dental education.
• Existing continuing education (CE) programs in periodontology lack outcome assessments.
• This study evaluates knowledge acquisition across different CE formats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the knowledge levels of dentists participating in different continuing education formats in periodontology.
• To assess the effectiveness of advanced training in enhancing periodontal knowledge and clinical application.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory study comparing Master Periodontology students and Curriculum graduates.
• Participants completed a comprehensive fictive patient case assessment covering 11 key periodontal topics.
• Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and Scheffé-method was performed (p < 0.05).

Main Results:

• Master graduates (n=32) significantly outperformed Curriculum graduates (n=26) in multiple areas.
• Key areas of superior performance included anamnesis, periodontitis-systemic disease links, oral microbiology, and various treatment modalities (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• A blended-learning approach in advanced periodontology education effectively enhances theoretical knowledge.
• This enhanced knowledge facilitates better therapeutic decisions and application in clinical practice.
• The findings underscore the value of intensive training for improving periodontal care.