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Mastering Dental Extractions: Enhancing Skills and Confidence for Young UK Dentists

  • Writer: Dr Ajmal Zubair
    Dr Ajmal Zubair
  • Nov 27, 2023
  • 3 min read

Oral surgery, particularly dental extractions, often poses significant challenges for young dentists in the UK. The complexities of these procedures, coupled with the high expectations of clinical competence post-graduation, can be daunting. This blog post delves into the common struggles faced by young UK dentists in oral surgery and provides research-based strategies to improve their proficiency in this crucial domain of dentistry.




Common Challenges in Oral Surgery for Young UK Dentists 1. Lack of Confidence and Experience A study conducted at King's College London revealed that although most final-year dental students felt they had adequate undergraduate oral surgery experience, many lacked confidence in performing complex procedures like surgical extractions. 2. Educational Framework and Competency Expectations The General Dental Council (GDC) has shifted its focus from 'independent clinician' to 'safe beginner' for new graduates, emphasizing the ongoing nature of learning post-graduation. However, there is often a gap between academic training and real-world clinical practice, contributing to young dentists’ lack of confidence in performing surgical extractions. 3. Staffing Shortages and Inadequate Supervision Staff shortages in oral surgery departments and inadequate supervision, especially for surgical extractions, exacerbate the challenges faced by dental students. 4. Referral to Secondary Care Young dentists often refer cases to secondary care due to the anticipated complexity of the procedure or the patient's medical history, which could be managed in primary care with adequate training and confidence. Strategies to Improve Skills in Dental Extractions 1. Patient Preparation

Thorough patient assessment and understanding of their medical status are crucial. Young dentists should not hesitate to consult with the patient's GP if needed. 2. Clinical Assessment and Consent Detailed evaluation of the tooth and surrounding structures, along with obtaining informed patient consent, is essential. 3. Instrument Preparation and Usage Proper arrangement and understanding of instruments like forceps, luxators, and elevators are vital for efficient extractions. 4. Optimal Access and Visibility Ensuring good access and visibility of the surgical site by proper patient and operator positioning, adequate retraction of soft tissues, and effective lighting and suction. 5. Post-Extraction Management Proper management of the extraction site post-procedure is crucial for uneventful healing. 6. Seeking Additional Training Dentists should consider additional training for complex extractions, including opportunities at local oral surgery units and dental schools. Educational Strategies for Dental Schools 1. Enhancing Pre-Clinical Training Incorporating practical training with phantom head laboratories and virtual reality simulators can improve pre-clinical skills. 2. Clinical Stage Enhancements Utilizing multi-disciplinary clinics and outreach centres offers real-world experience and diverse patient exposure. 3. Leveraging Technology Virtual learning environments (VLEs) and virtual reality/augmented reality tools can enhance learning and provide feedback on performance. 4. Peer Assessment and Reflective Learning Encouraging peer assessment and reflective learning can develop critical thinking and professionalism. 5. Addressing Clinical Experience Shortfall

Strategies like screening and assessment clinics can help address the shortage of suitable patients for clinical experience. 6. Adapting to Workforce Changes Adapting to the increased reliance on part-time clinical teachers and changes in student numbers is necessary for maintaining the quality of teaching. Conclusion The transition from dental school to independent practice is a critical phase for young dentists, especially in the realm of oral surgery and dental extractions. By understanding the challenges and implementing the strategies outlined, young dentists can enhance their skills and confidence, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for unnecessary referrals. It's essential for dental education to continuously evolve, incorporating innovative teaching methods and clinical experiences, to prepare future dentists for the complexities of modern dental practice. Bibliography 1. "Perceived confidence and experience in oral surgery among final year undergraduate students in a UK dental school." British Dental Journal. (https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2015.838) 2. "Oral surgery: top tips for primary care." British Dental Journal. https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2016.900) 3. "Preparing dental students for independent practice: a scoping review of methods and trends in undergraduate clinical skills teaching in the UK and Ireland." British Dental Journal. (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-020-2505-7) 4. "An investigation into the oral surgery curriculum and undergraduate experience in a sample of DFT's in the UK." PubMed. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33053250/)

 
 
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