Like many others, the dental industry is always changing and technological advancements are always moving forward. It’s imperative that dentists and dental technicians stay current with the latest in diagnosis, preventative care, and treatment. Read on to learn some of the benefits of staying up-to-date with changes in the dental industry.
1. Improve Your Knowledge Base
When you keep up with continuing education, you will have the opportunity to become a master in complex dental care in such areas as (but not limited to):
- Restoration
- Orthodontics
- Orthopedics
- Oral Surgery
- IV Sedation
- Dental Implants
- Occlusion
When you take continuing education classes from leading experts in their fields, you will earn an education by the very best, building upon your already-existing specialties and knowledge.
2. Refine Your Techniques
When you are constantly learning new skills and building on your existing specialties, you will ensure your patients always receive the most up-to-date treatments available. You will always be aware of new treatment options when you are working on patients.
3. Keep Your License Up-to-Date
Every province has its own rules and regulations when it comes to dental licenses, but all have basic requirements for continuing education. Make sure you stay on top of your continuing education credits on an ongoing basis so you don’t have to try to rush to fit them in before your license’s cycle is run its course.
4. Meet Like-Minded Peers
You will often get to take courses in large groups and this will allow you to come into contact with a wide variety of other dentists and dental technicians. If they are at the same courses as you it is very likely they are just as passionate about their field and keeping current with their education as you. Dental continuing education courses are a fantastic way to meet your peers, network, and meet useful contacts in the industry.
You might also meet potential clients or employers. Networking events typically start with some sort of forum or educational seminar that highlights new trends or advancements and then moves along to cocktails and mingling. Both events are great ways to keep learning about topics specific to dentistry.
5. Build a Resume
When you take dental continuing education courses, you will be able to show on your resume that you are dedicated to improving your skills and knowledge. It also shows initiative and drive. Keep a running list of courses if you are looking to accelerate your career.
6. Find a Career that Supports Continued Education
Continued education course instructors and peers you meet on courses can give you pointers to finding a career that will support you in becoming a dental leader. Continuing education is essential to success in your field, and your job should always place a high priority on continuing ed courses.
You can also take continuing education courses on topics such as Guided Implant Surgery, Transitioning from Analog to Digital Techniques, Endodontics, and Social Media in Dentistry. This last topic mentioned might seem silly, but online communication is a major reality today and it isn’t likely to go anywhere soon, so it’s best you learn about dangers you might not be aware of when it comes to social media.
Think about it: there are privacy issues as well as legal and regulatory perspectives you must consider with each post you make. Learn how to keep yourself safe while promoting your business.
