Evaluation of readiness to practice among interns at an Indian dental school

Introduction: Dental education has evolved tremendously across the globe over the past few years. The aim of dental undergraduate education is to produce a competent dentist. Many students feel the need to work as an ‘apprentice’ with another dentist until they gain confidence and additional skills which can otherwise be taught in the learning years at dental school. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the readiness to practice after graduation among interns at a dental school in India. Methodology: Totally, 51 interns out of 88 consented to participate in the survey. A questionnaire survey with 26 items was distributed. Completed forms were taken, and the data extracted and descriptive analysis was carried out. Results: About 51% students had joined dentistry out of interest, 31% students had joined because they did not get admission in medical schools. About 96% of students felt that they would require additional exposure under a dentist before establishing their own practice. About 88% of the responders felt that they had not gained sufficient knowledge and confidence during the course of study to practice as an independent dental practitioner immediately after internship. Majority of the students appeared to be doubtful about performing root canal treatments on single and multiple rooted teeth. The Interns felt they were unprepared and not competent to handle complex tasks. Conclusion: Reforms in Indian dental education are long overdue. Raising the standards of dental education to global standards will lead to better outcomes such as better education standards, better infrastructure, and patient care practices.