Evaluation of Orthodontic Residency Training Programme in Nigeria: Perils and Pitfalls from Residents’ Perspective

Abstract

Background: The orthodontic residency program is an intensive 5-6 years of dedicated academic, research and clinical  training programme. Residents rarely get an opportunity to express anonymous opinions regarding the programme. More so, the two examining bodies may not be conversant with the problems residents encounter during training and
some of the shortcomings of the training programme from the residents’ perspective. The aim of the study was to assess residents’ perspective to the residency training programme and the challenges encountered. 

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive questionnaire based survey carried out among orthodontic residents from nine different postgraduate training institutions in Nigeria. The 1 4- item questionnaire was administered through a telephone conversation with respondents using closed and open ended options. Data was analysed using SPSS version 23.

Results: A total of 26 residents were interviewed across the country representing about 65% of the total sampled population of orthodontic residents in Nigeria. All respondents indicated they would be adequately prepared for unsupervised patient care after graduation. About 81% reported sufficient clinical based training while 26.9% were dissatisfied with the training. With respect to challenges faced, 92.3% felt that spending personal funds on patient care was a huge burden while 73.1% felt the junior residency period was too lengthy .

Conclusion: Orthodontic residents are exposed to sufficient clinical based training and are capable of taking up unsupervised orthodontic care after the programme although they are faced with challenges of poor infrastructure, and inadequate and irregular supply of orthodontic materials.