The current working patterns and future career aspirations of specialist trainees in dentistry

Abstract

ObjectivesTo determine current demographic details of dental specialist registrars in the UK, to examine their current working patterns and ascertain their future career aspirations. Methods A cross-sectional survey, using a self-administered postal questionnaire of all 418 dental specialist registrars (SpRs) in the UK. Results The response rate was 78%. Of the SpRs who responded 59% were male, the majority were aged under 36, 54% were married and over one third had dependants. Orthodontics had the greatest number of SpRs with 141, followed by maxillofacial surgery (70) and restorative dentistry (52). On completion of training, 80% of SpRs intended to work full time. Significantly more women intended to work part-time. Only a fifth of SpRs said they would consider an academic appointment compared with 54% for specialist practice. Three quarters intended to work partly in the public sector and partly in a private capacity. London was the most popular choice of location for a post in the future. Access to a wide range of clinical work, continuing professional development, autonomy and sociability were the most important factors when considering their future choice of career. Conclusion Changes in the demographic profile of dental specialists and increasing opportunities for providing care within primary care may lead to difficulties in recruitment to academic and hospital posts. Increasing provision of specialist services in the 'high street' might improve access but could lead to inequalities unless these services are commissioned according to the needs of the population.Specialisation in dentistry is not new. However the advent of recognised specialist training pathways leading to the certificate of completion of specialist training and the formation of

The career intentions, work-life balance and retirement plans of dental undergraduates at the University of Bristol

“…4 Previous studies have also found an increase in the number of female dentists specialising and significant gender differences within specialities. 8,15 Following DFT, the majority (93%) of respondents intend on working full-time, although this drops to 77% after 5 years and to 48% after 15 years. Furthermore, after 5 years and 15 years, the percentage of females who intend on working part time (62%) is more than double the percentage of males (29%).…”

The perceived barriers of vocational dental practitioners in London to specialisation

“…Why this occurred is not immediately obvi ous from the questionnaire, as this aspect was not investigated. There is some evi dence that flexible training is particularly appreciated by women 6 and the replies to the question on a career in medicine may have been influenced by this factor.…”

Changes in the gender and ethnic balance of the United Kingdom orthodontic workforce

“…4,[12][13][14][15] Despite this, little is known as to whether the cultures and traditions of minority ethnic groups affect the sup ply of orthodontic personnel. 12,16 The aims of this study were to examine the demographics of the current special ist orthodontic workforce and explore any trends which may exist in the gen der and ethnic balance of those on the Specialist List in Orthodontics.…”