Removable prosthodontics education and experience in the United Kingdom, from undergraduate to foundation training

Abstract

Introduction Concerns have been made previously that new graduates lack confidence and experience in removable prosthodontics. Aims To explore undergraduate removable prosthodontic curricula and experience in UK dental schools, and removable prosthodontics experience and confidence of foundation dentists (FDs), in North East England. Methods Two online anonymous questionnaires were sent via email. Results Responses were received from 14 dental schools and 22 FDs. Expected thresholds averaged at four partial dentures and three complete dentures. FDs rated their undergraduate training as ‘good' or ‘very good' in complete and partial dentures, but ‘fair' to ‘very poor' for implant-supported overdentures. The number of dentures provided in foundation training (FT) averaged at six complete, 16 partial acrylic and two partial cobalt-chrome. FDs' confidence generally increased during FT in the provision of acrylic partial, complete and immediate dentures, whereas there was more variation and some decrease in confidence in cobalt-chrome partial dentures. Conclusion Dental schools have employed strategies to ensure continued experience for their students. FDs thought highly of their undergraduate education in complete and partial dentures, but indicated improvement was needed for implant-supported dentures. During FT, confidence was reported in the provision of removable prostheses where they had gained the most experience.