Date of Award

2019

Embargo Period

8-1-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Oral Rehabilitation

College

College of Dental Medicine

First Advisor

Lindsey M. Hamil

Second Advisor

Timothy R. Rohde

Third Advisor

Theodore D. Ravenel

Abstract

Significance and Introduction: Dental schools in the United States are faced with a shortage of faculty. Endodontic residencies and pre-doctoral clinics are not immune to the faculty scarcity. The purpose of this study was to assess factors that influence endodontic residents’ decisions on whether to pursue a career as a dental educator. This information may be used to inform future recruitment and retention efforts for endodontic faculty. Materials and Methods: All United States American Association of Endodontists (AAE) members designated as “resident members” (525) were sent an electronic survey. The survey included demographic data, and factors impacting their career decisions. Results: One hundred and seven (107) respondents completed the survey. Twenty-six (26) respondents (24.3%) stated they plan to pursue a career in dental education at some point in the future. Four (4) respondents (3.7%) stated they would never consider a career in dental education. The remaining 72% indicated they would be open to pursuing a career in dental education if the conditions were favorable. Factors that respondents reported would motivate them toward pursuing a career in dental education were: “Salary” (76.6%), “Loan Reimbursement or Loan Forgiveness” (61.7%), “A Reduced Number of Work Days per Week” (29.9%) and “Opportunity to Practice Outside the University” (29.9%). Over half (56.7%) of residents anticipated incurring an educational debt of $200,000 or more, and only 17% of the respondents anticipated graduating with no debt. Financial compensation and work-life balance were major factors impacting residents’ decisions to pursue a career in dental education. In addition, infrequent discussions between residents and faculty about the components of an academic career were statistically correlated with a response of “unsure” about becoming a dental educator. Residents with one to three (1-3) years of experience as a general dentist before residency were statistically more likely to be interested in pursuing a career in dental education. Importantly, they were also statistically more likely to intend to begin their teaching careers within five years of finishing residency. No significant differences in responses or preferences existed based on gender or underrepresented minority (URM) status. Discussion and Conclusion: Financial factors and desire for independence were major contributors to the decision to pursue a career in dental education. The average educational debt reported by respondents was more than double the debt for endodontic residents in a 2002 study. Respondents recommended solutions to these issues, including loan repayment options and the ability to practice outside of the university at least once per week. They also expressed an interest in increased training and mentorship options, including fellowships, teaching assistantships, and instruction of general dentistry residents. Additional reasons for avoiding a career in dental education included a desire to avoid the politics and bureaucracy of academic institutions and the need for a convenient location for work and family.

Rights

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