Developing Competence in Tooth Extractions during Undergraduate Dental Education – A Qualitative Study

Purpose: To gain a deeper understanding of factors which contribute to development of competence in tooth extractions during undergraduate dental education.

Methods: A qualitative approach was used to explore the perceptions and experiences of a range of stakeholders. Purposive sampling was used to recruit the participants which included undergraduate dental students, new graduates, dental academic staff, and clinical supervisors. The focus groups were transcribed verbatim, and data were imported into NVivo 12. Data were analyzed thematically using an inductive approach.

Results: Two focus groups were conducted. Ten undergraduate students participated in the Student Focus Group while eight dental academics and clinical supervisors participated in the Staff Focus Group. Participants expressed their views on a range of issues related to teaching and training of tooth extractions. The key themes cantered on structured teaching underpinned by patient safety; focus on breadth of clinical experience; and constructive feedback to enhance reflective practice amongst students to enhance the learning experiences of students.