How To Maximize Your Orthodontics Course Experience

Orthodontics courses are becoming a preferred option for continuing education among general and pediatric dentists. These engaging courses provide practical education that helps you expand your services and grow your practice. However, it takes a deliberate approach to maximize the impact of this specialized training. 

Here are 3 things you can do before, during, and after an orthodontic course to make the most of it.

1. Before the Course

To put what you learn to good use, you need to come into the course with a solid foundation. That is why you will want to first take a moment and pin down exactly what you plan on getting out of orthodontics courses. For example, are you building your knowledge base to better support your patients? Do you plan on implementing comprehensive treatment options?

With those goals in mind, make sure to choose the right course for your needs. There are many fast-track courses available online today, but they may not deliver the practical experience and foundational knowledge you need. If you really want to make a difference, then comprehensive orthodontics courses are the way to go.

You’ll also want to carefully review the planned curriculum so that you know what to expect and what materials to gather. If you have peers who have gone through similar courses, then asking them about their experience is another good way to prepare yourself for orthodontics courses.

Depending on whether you’re taking basic, intermediate, or advanced courses, you may already have experience dealing with orthodontic cases. If so, consider brushing up on some of your more challenging cases so that you can ask pertinent questions to instructors or engage in discussion with fellow dentists taking the course.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of planning trip details beforehand. Go ahead and book transportation, reserve lodging, and finish packing in advance to avoid rushing at the last minute and dealing with time-sensitive issues. This lets you approach the orthodontic course with complete focus.

2. During the Course

While preparation beforehand is essential, a big part of what you take home from the course depends on what you do during it. Engaging with the course in a meaningful way helps reinforce the knowledge and skills it has to offer.

This means ensuring that you actively participate whenever possible. Quality orthodontic training courses will include plenty of opportunities to interact directly with instructors and peers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, as this is a vital part of the learning experience.

You should also give some thought to how you take notes during the course. There are a variety of methods that can work well for different people. Consider options such as idea mapping that rely on a less linear and more visual approach than traditional note-taking.

3. After the Course

Once the course is over, you’ll have to take the right approach to put what you’ve learned into action. The specifics on how to do this come down to what your individual goals are concerning orthodontics. Whether you plan on implementing orthodontic treatment options or not will have a major impact on your next steps.

In either case, you must retain the knowledge you’ve developed. A good course will provide a variety of materials that you can keep for this purpose. Reviewing them from time to time will help keep important details fresh in your mind. Keeping up with the latest news and developments in orthodontics through studies and journals is also beneficial.

If you plan on implementing orthodontic treatment options in your practice, then having those review materials on hand will be especially beneficial. Once you start taking on cases, being able to refer back to this foundational knowledge will help you approach them with confidence.

Additionally, you can expand on your new orthodontic foundation in the future. Moving on to intermediate and advanced courses will prepare you to add even more treatment options and to tackle more challenging cases.

Supporting Every Step of Your Continuing Education With Orthodontics Courses

Orthodontic courses for general dentists are an excellent resource to move your career forward and grow your practice. Taking the right steps before, during, and after continuing education courses will help you make the most of the knowledge you gain and the skills you develop.

The American Orthodontic Society (AOS) offers a wide range of orthodontic courses for general dentists designed to enable you to confidently implement orthodontic treatment options in your practice. We also provide the resources and network you need to nurture and apply what you’ve learned. Learn more about everything the AOS has to offer today.