For postgraduate teaching, insist on only the very best

  Posted by: Dental Design      10th June 2022

For dental students, the past two years have been tough. The changes to teaching methods meant less direct contact with patients which, in many cases, impacted confidence, as well as the valuable relationships made as an undergraduate. For these reasons and more, for a new dentist, there has never been a better time to access postgraduate education. A programme that builds self-confidence as well as develops skill and knowledge, and that offers a chance to broaden your professional network, is what you should be aiming for.

If you’re looking to master an area that will allow you to help more patients comprehensively, implant therapy is a clear stand-out choice. Desired by patients for their aesthetics, as well as longevity (when instructed in correct maintenance), dental implants can provide unrivalled strength and function, behaving just like a natural tooth. A practice that can offer this treatment will boost their reputation and see profits rise; demand is only going to increase here, and worldwide. Training to be an implant dentist will therefore be exceptionally fulfilling – personally, professionally and financially.

The next step is which course to choose. You may feel overwhelmed by options, but if you let the pedigree of the teaching team be your guide, the rest will fall into place.

So, what makes a great postgraduate tutor? Subject knowledge is an obvious priority, so look for renowned clinicians, experienced in placing and restoring dental implants, and who continue to treat patients. This will indicate their passion to share not just knowledge, but also the techniques and materials they are using as part of their more advanced practice. A great teacher will be committed to life-long learning themselves, interested in research and emerging technologies, participating in lectures and seminars, and constantly aspiring to know more, to do more  

They will also create a warm, welcoming environment in the classroom. Especially since the return of face-to-face teaching, establishing a supportive community, where any contribution is valued, is imperative to quality learning, and for students to get the most out of their chosen course. A great teacher will also be a mentor, who can be relied on for ongoing guidance. Once you’ve completed postgraduate study in implant dentistry and are starting your journey, when certain complex cases present, you will need to turn to a trusted mentor for advice, to ensure you are working within your competency for a successful outcome. The best mentorships happen when there is mutual respect – you draw on their experience and knowledge, and they will be willing to learn from you too, to share best practices and see problem-solving from a fresh perspective. They will appreciate students as fellow professionals and know that each one gives them the opportunity to grow. This creates a sense of ‘team’, facilitating shared decision-making with one goal in mind – to deliver exceptional care and raise standards of oral health.

Exceptional communication skills are also a must – the ability to listen, as well as speak. Worthwhile postgraduate study means not feeling like you’re being lectured at. When a teacher is accessible as well as passionate, their classes will always be engaging. They will also understand the importance of practical, hands-on learning, and look for novel ways to present material, so that every student can understand key concepts.

When you are choosing a postgraduate dental implant course, you must have high expectations. This isn’t about completing the programme then moving on, it’s understanding this is a process. You are putting together the building blocks to be a safe and confident implant dentist, and postgraduate study is just the beginning. The fully accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry (EduQual Level 7) offered by The One to One Implant Education is delivered by an exceptional teaching team with a gold-standard pedigree; experienced, practising clinicians, who are also respected educators. Also with renowned global speakers, there is a tiered peer mentor system for friendship and professional guidance long after the course is finished. Half the teaching time is dedicated to live surgery to balance the depth of theory and evidence-based learning. As an added bonus, teaching is in purpose-built facilities in London’s Harley Street, with its rich history as the home of specialist medicine and healthcare.

Great teachers are exceptional leaders and role models; they are always professional but understand that the best learning comes from a collaboration between educator and student. Now that we are returning to more recognisable teaching modalities, do not compromise on the quality of postgraduate education you access. Look for courses led by passionate, expert clinicians and experienced instructors, willing to share their knowledge and inspire you, and who are committed to continuing to support and guide your career in the years that follow.

To reserve your place or to find out more, please visit
https://121implanteducation.co.uk or call 020 7486 0000.