Oğuzhan Kaya, Eyyüp Altıntaş
Journal of Dental Sciences and Education - 2025;3(4):111-116
Aims: The aim of our study is to determine the treatment, planning, and X-Ray evaluation skills of 4th and 5th year dental students at our university and newly graduated dentists from our faculty, as well as the procedures they find difficult in the clinical stages of fixed and removable prostheses. Methods: A total of 140 dental students and dentists were included in the study, comprising 55 fourth-year students, 45 fifth-year students who had completed their prosthetic dentistry internships, and 40 recent graduates from our faculty. To evaluate the clinical internship experiences of the dentists, a 27-question survey form was created using Google Forms, and the survey link was shared with the participants. The survey included 5-point Likert-type questions and closed-ended questions. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test and the Bonferroni-corrected Z test. Results: Significant differences were found among groups in terms of single-tooth preparation time (p=0.001), the effect of patient anxiety (p=0.027), and the most challenging steps in complete and removable denture procedures (p=0.002 and p=0.027, respectively). Half of the graduates completed single-tooth preparation in 15 minutes, while most 4th- and 5th-year students required 15-30 minutes. Fifth-year students were most affected by patient anxiety. In complete denture treatments, occlusal adjustment was generally reported as the most difficult step, whereas try-in denture was the most challenging for 5th-year students. In removable partial denture planning, patient-specific design was the most difficult stage for all groups, though the specific areas of difficulty varied by experience level. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that clinical experience shortens procedure times in prosthodontic treatments while enhancing empathy and patient management skills. Nevertheless, occlusal adjustment in complete dentures and treatment planning in removable partial dentures remain the most critical challenges, regardless of experience level. These findings suggest that emphasizing these steps in prosthodontic education may enhance clinical efficiency and contribute to improved patient satisfaction.
