Perceptions of BDS Students Toward the Preclinical Restorative Dentistry Course: A Cross-Sectional Study at CMH Lahore Medical College

Simulation to Skill in Restorative Dentistry

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate students' perceptions regarding curriculum effectiveness, teaching quality, workload, and preparation for clinical practice in the preclinical restorative dentistry course. Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Settings: Institute of Dentistry and CMH Lahore Medical College. Duration: January to June 2023. Methods: It was conducted on dental students who have attended the Preclinical Restorative Dentistry Course in their 2nd Year of the Bachelor's in Dental Surgery from the same Institute. A specially designed questionnaire was used to record students’ perspectives on the Preclinical Restorative Dental Course. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were calculated. Results: Out of 180 dental students, 50 (27.8%) were males and 130 (72.2%) were females. Mean participant age was 21.57±0.98 years (age range of 20 – 24 years). 171 (95.0%) respondents reported that the preclinical restorative dentistry course provided a valuable addition to their clinical practice. There were 175 out of 180 (97.2%) respondents who suggested that this course was beneficial for improving their psychomotor skills. More than 85% of students were satisfied with the course curriculum, teaching strategies, and assessment methodology. However, 21.7% reported the course workload to be extensive. Conclusion: Student-centered evaluation of preclinical restorative dental curriculum was found to be positive. However, improvements regarding reducing stress levels and better workload manageability are required. Further studies need to be carried out in other dental colleges too.