Affiliation:
1. Orthodontics Group, Division of Craniofacial and Surgical Care Adams School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill North Carolina USA
2. Private Practice at Simply Orthodontics Dayville Connecticut USA
3. Department of Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics Indiana University School of Dentistry Indianapolis Indiana USA
4. University of North Carolina, Howard W. Odum Institute for Research in Social Science, Davis Library Chapel Hill North Carolina USA
5. Division of Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences Adams School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill North Carolina USA
Abstract
AbstractPurposeThe desirability of Orthodontic Residency remains high today relative to the past 30 years. This investigation seeks to re‐assess factors influencing Orthodontic Residency program selection amidst contemporary challenges and changes, including increasing student debt, reduced residency stipends, and shifting practice models.MethodsThis mixed‐methods study consisted of interviews (qualitative) and surveys (quantitative). Fifteen final‐year dental students and first‐year orthodontic residents were interviewed one‐on‐one following a topic guide and then transcripts were analyzed using MAXQDA2022 to identify values, factors, and influences related to program selection and ranking. Qualitative findings and previous studies provided the basis for a survey distributed to residency applicants in 2020‐22. Data were analyzed with bivariate and descriptive statistics with stratification by debt group.ResultsInterviews (N = 15) elevated the importance of location, interview experience, program cost, and clinical education. Surveys (N = 239) identified the most desirable factors for program selection: satisfied residents, strong clinical training with multiple techniques, good interview impressions, low cost, high patient numbers, a strong reputation, and good clinical facilities with new technology. Less desirable factors include programs that are hospital‐based, certificate‐only, research‐intensive, and require considerable after‐hours work.ConclusionsClinical education and interview experiences are key for residency selection, consistent with prior studies, though program cost has grown in importance. Findings can help guide orthodontic programs in recruiting applicants and suggest a need to limit educational costs.
Funder
National Institutes of Health
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
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