Survey of undergraduate esthetic courses in U.S. and Canadian dental schools

U.S. and Canadian dental schools were surveyed regarding curriculum issues related to undergraduate dental esthetic restorative courses. A one-page survey instrument was sent to deans of academic affairs (n=59) of dental schools to complete or forward to the most appropriate faculty at their respective schools who would be knowledgeable about the esthetic restorative curriculum. Responses were received from forty-two dental schools (42/59) for a response rate of 72.9 percent. The first part of the survey asked if a specific esthetic restorative course was offered at their school, if it was mandatory or elective, and details of the course length and content. The second part of the survey asked whether selected esthetic restorative procedures were included in the curriculum. Respondents to this survey indicated that most types of esthetic restorative procedures are taught whether or not an esthetic course is included in the curriculum.