Implant dentistry is not taught in the undergraduate curriculum. It is advisable that a dentist follows the GDC’s standards as stated: “a UK-qualified dentist would not be expected to be competent to practise implant dentistry without undertaking structured postgraduate training and assessment of competence”. This lecture aims to provide a dentist with the knowledge of where to start learning about dental implants. Budding “Implantologists” will be provided information on what training and support is required to allow a dental surgeon to be deemed competent by the GDC and undertake a career with dental implants. It will specifically cover:
- An update of the Training Standards in Implant Dentistry
- What environment is appropriate to learn dental implants
- The enhanced skills necessary and definition of “competency”
- A familiarisation with the courses available
- A promotion of a range of high quality education
- The important role of a “mentor”
- A portfolio of implants
Learning Objectives:
- To be able to recognise and describe the various skills required for implant dentistry
- To understand the importance of formal dental implant courses
- To be aware of the best learning methods
- To be aware of what constitutes a good “mentor”
- To be able to approach and recognise in a clear and logical manner what courses meet GDC standards
- To be aware of the various GDC statements and guidelines
- To be aware of the training required for simple, advanced and complex implant cases
- To know the portfolio needed for implant practice
- To know how to undertake implant training in a safe and predictable manner
- To be able to recognise the limitations of their skills and know when and how to improve
- To be aware of current European developments in implant training.