The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of a training initiative aimed at enhancing general dentists' knowledge and clinical skills in pediatric dentistry. Data were gathered from participants in 2-day didactic and preclinical training courses offered at Nicklaus Children's Hospital from December 2015 through December 2016. Clinical knowledge was measured with a 30-item questionnaire, and self-efficacy was measured with standardized instruments. The participants' satisfaction with the course was measured at the end of the program. Data on patterns of treatment were collected pretraining and 3 months posttraining via a follow-up survey. During the study period, 38 general dentists participated in the training program and reported statistically significant increases in knowledge and cognitive skills (P < 0.05). All of the respondents to the follow-up survey reported an increase in the number of children treated and scope of services provided, and all respondents expressed satisfaction with the course (response rate = 34.2%). Training initiatives seeking to enhance the clinical skills and knowledge of general dentists may be an effective tool for modifying patterns of treatment, increasing access to care for children, and maximizing the capacity of the safety net system.
Keywords: community healthcare; dental care for children; healthcare disparities; pediatric dentistry; public health dentistry.