Program Minimums: Getting to the Bottom Clinically

[dent2414]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hi there!

It seems like all of the places I visit for interviews are saying that what sets them apart is there "focus on clinical dentistry", that they "prepare students to practice right away" and that they "are doing more procedures than other schools". I know this differs between programs, student preferences, etc.

All of the programs, however, seem to have minimums that students need to hit X amount of root canals, crowns, extractions, fillings, etc. Some do PLACE implants, others only restore or assist. Trying to get to the bottom line!

Can those who are already in programs speak to their clinical minimums? Even if it is a range? Also, specifics on WHICH teeth as well -- for instance, some schools do not allow there students to do some extractions or root canals depending on the tooth origin.

Any information would be very helpful! I hope to compile a sheet of data. If this already exists, please feel free to point me in the right direction. I think this data will be very helpful for applicants -- whether they want to practice general dentistry or specialize.

Thanks!!


















































































































'''""""p

 

[zToothinator]

Not a student. But not all schools are like that. For example, UConn is competency based where you can do how many fillings, crowns, etc you want and then challenge the competency. If you pass, you don’t have to do any more of that procedure if you don’t want to.

 

[princeafrica]

If you want the most clinically advanced school go to Midwestern University Arizona. But then again 4-5 years after you graduate (if you are just a GP), everyone is on the same level. Dental school is about you making the most of it. Every school will offer you enough, it is up to you go to beyond.

I shadowed a chief resident who said it don't matter where you go as long as you like it and learn. He had two residents - one from Meharry and one from Columbia. He said the Columbia student could answer all your clinical/biochem questions in seconds but when he asked him to do a restoration or something i don't remember, he froze and the Meharry student went right to work.

Point being, all the schools will give you the clinical experience you need, it is up to you to make the most of it and learn as much as you can by being willing to learn, be criticized, care, and seek opportunities.

 

[wwdentist]

This thread has some of what you’re looking for I believe

Can You Answer These Questions About Your Dental School? (Part 2)

 

[littleteeth]

Just interviewed at Temple and they mentioned how their students do an average of 80 extractions and like 15 root canals, but not many implants. I should’ve asked this specific question at other schools since it would be really good to know!