When dental school ends, your continuing education (CE) journey begins. The importance of CE is hard to overstate: It’s one of the only ways dentists continue to learn the latest technology, trends and techniques in the field.
Taking advantage of free CE
About five years ago, I had just graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and was in my first months of residency. As I look back now, I wish I would have taken more advantage of some of the free resources at my fingertips such as ADA CE Online.
What I wish I’d known in dental school
Going into dentistry was one of the greatest choices I’ve made, and I want every dental student to know they’ve chosen a rewarding profession in which they’re likely to succeed. For me, dentistry was the plan since childhood. Although I didn’t understand what being a dentist entailed back then, I remember thinking, “I could be a good dentist.” Fast forward about 15 years, and I was in dental school — and it was harder than I expected.
The benefits of CE as a dental student
Implants are quickly becoming a staple of modern dentistry. Did you know that you can take implant training courses as a student? It may seem like jumping the gun, but you can learn a lot, set yourself apart as a job applicant and save a lot of money by expanding your knowledge base now.
Avoiding the fourth-year burnout
As a fourth-year student approaching graduation, it can be hard to stay motivated. Over the past four years, you have worked hard, and now you feel “senioritis” looming. Although coasting to the finish line seems appealing, it may not be the best option. If you have completed your competencies, you may find yourself with a lot of free time. Use that time to expand your education. Here are some ideas to build on your educational foundation during your final semester.
A student’s take on the New Dentist Committee
I am at the start of my third year, wondering how I am going to survive through all the clinical requirements, when I am asked to be a student representative for the New Dentist Committee of the Southern Nevada Dental Society. I hesitated at first, having so much on my plate already. In the end I decided it would be a very good opportunity to get involved in a different aspect of dentistry. A year later, I can officially say I am glad to be a part of this group.