Sustained Continuing Education: How a Masters Programme Makes a Difference to Primary Care Dentists

Courses that are part of a longer-term planned programme of continuing education are more likely to impact on the practice of dentists than short course interventions.This study assessed the impact of a part-time, five-year Master of Science (MSc) programme at the School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, designed specifically for general dental practitioners. Perceptions were sought from all 22 dentists registered on the MSc at the time of the study. The study provides evidence that a well-targeted masters programme for primary care dentists can make a difference to participants' knowledge and confidence and, importantly, generate change in practice. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Sustained continuing education programmes, such as the University of Birmingham Masters Degree targeting primary care dentists, can provide valued contact with other dentists, and enhance practitioners' clinical knowledge.