How is paediatric dentistry taught? A survey to evaluate undergraduate dental teaching in dental schools in the United Kingdom.

INTRODUCTION: The quality assurance of undergraduate dental education in the UK is regulated by the General Dental Council who describe the competencies expected of the newly qualified dentist or "safe beginner." Whilst the literature has explored the level of undergraduate training in a number of dental specialties within the UK, there is a paucity of information on the UK curriculum for undergraduate paediatric dental teaching. AIMS: This study aimed to assess the undergraduate teaching of paediatric dentistry within dental schools in the UK. METHODS: An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to all 16 UK dental schools via email. RESULTS: Twelve questionnaires were completed, giving a response rate of 75%. First exposure to both academic teaching and clinical teaching in paediatric dentistry ranged from years 1-4. Whilst there were broad similarities between units with regard to core components of the curricula, there were notable differences including the teaching of regenerative endodontics (75%) and the use of the titanium trauma splint (58%). Silver diamine fluoride was only used clinically in one unit (8%), and non-vital pulpotomy was taught by two units (16%). There was also considerable heterogeneity in assessment methods between universities. CONCLUSION: The undergraduate paediatric dental curriculum is broadly similar between UK dental schools. However, there are discrepancies in assessment methods and the teaching of new advances.

A discoloured anterior tooth: enamel microabrasion.

Objectives The aim of this article is to present an easy to use, conservative method for managing discolouration in enamel in general practice. Materials and methods Microabrasion was used in this case to remove superficial layers of discoloured enamel utilising abrasive acids, which was further improved by using ICON, a newly developed resin infiltrant. Results Significant improvement shown by the presented case suggests that this modality of treatment could be used more frequently. Discussion This simple yet extremely effective treatment can be used by the general dental practitioner despite not having the necessary equipment as readily available alternatives can be used. Conclusion Using minimally invasive options in managing superficial enamel lesions can be effective and prevent the use of invasive procedures in the first instance.