Marino R, Manton D, Reid K, Delany C. Preparedness for dental practice in Australia: a qualitative study on the experiences of final-year students and new graduates. BMC Med Educ 2023; 23:318.

Lack of experience in some clinical areas noted.

On graduation, dental practitioners (which in this study includes dentists, dental therapists, hygienists and dental prosthetists) are expected to have 'attributes of professionalism and skills in critical thinking, communication and health promotion.' In assessing the perceptions of readiness of newly graduated dental practitioners (NGDPs) for practice, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 18 NGDPs and 4 final year students from different Australian states.

In general, NGDPs felt well prepared for independent practice, although the transition was found to be daunting. Weaknesses in preparation included lack of exposure to some clinical experiences (eg endodontics, prosthodontics and others) and teaching around recognising domestic abuse and neglect. A lack of preparedness for communicating with parents and those of a different culture and age was recognised. Stressors included time management and creating a work-life balance. A lack of understanding of the scope of practice of other members of the team was reported, and therapists and prosthetists felt undervalued as part of the dental team.