1633 Developing Confidence in Dental Core Trainees; A National Review of The Trainee Experience

Abstract

Abstract Aim In the U.K, Dental Core Training (DCT) is an elective postgraduate training programme. There are over 700 DCT jobs with the majority in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS). Our focus was to measure the confidence and skills of 103 DCTs, as they mature during a year in OMFS. Method OMFS DCTs answered questionnaires in month 1, 3 and 6 of their training post, regarding confidence and proficiency in assessment of dental infections, facial fractures, swellings, pathology, airway risk, imaging and performing suturing. Results In month 1, 55% of DCTs were ‘somewhat confident’ in performing intra-oral suturing and assessing dento-facial infection out of the skills assessed. Only 22% of DCTs were ‘extremely confident’ in any competencies. Specifically, DCTs felt ‘not at all confident’ with interpretation of scans (78%) and assessment of facial fractures (35%). Between month 1 and month 6 there has been an increase in confidence across all competencies. Notably, a 42% confidence increase in extra-oral suturing and 61% increase in assessing mandibular fractures. Conclusions We demonstrate that an OMFS training year improves confidence in clinical skills and that an adequate time in a post is required to attain that. Our results highlight areas where DCTs lack confidence early in their posts. These could be targeted at dental school, during the hospital induction process or through guided support and training in the initial phase of their jobs. This study adds clarity to both dentists and doctors contemplating a training year in OMFS and gives insight into how to support and train them.