Bridging the Gap: Empowering Future Dentists Through Hands-On Learning

In the evolving world of healthcare, dentistry remains a field where precision, knowledge, and confidence must go hand-in-hand. Yet, too many pre-dental students enter dental school underprepared for the clinical realities that await them. This research journey set out with a clear and powerful vision: to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skill-building in pre-dental education through hands-on, interactive learning experiences.

The hypothesis was simple but bold: By offering tool-based workshops, students would not only improve their understanding of critical dental concepts like anatomy and biomaterials but also gain the confidence and self-assurance essential for success in dental school and beyond.

To test this, the research focused on two specific aims. First, we evaluated how hands-on instruction impacted students’ grasp of dental topics. The biomedical sciences are heavily emphasized within dentistry, but pre-dental students often lack the foundational knowledge that connects classroom theory to clinical practice. Through guided workshops led by board-certified professionals, students explored essential instruments and techniques. Pre and post-workshop assessments showed encouraging improvements, suggesting that these tactile experiences helped solidify their comprehension of dental anatomy and biomaterials.

A key highlight of the experience was the involvement of Dr. Eric Ennuson, a graduate of USC Dental School, who joined us as our guest dental professional. His presence brought real-world insight into the dental field, and more importantly, he took the time to connect personally with students. Dr. Ennuson has since become a mentor to several of our participants, proving that this program not only builds skills but also opens doors to meaningful professional relationships.

The second aim centered on confidence. By measuring students’ self-reported readiness before and after the workshops, we captured a notable shift: 90% of participants reported an increase in their confidence and felt more assured in their ability to perform foundational dental skills. Many cited tool usage and mentorship as the most valuable takeaways, reinforcing the idea that early exposure truly matters.

As we reflect on the outcomes, the implications are clear. If both aims are achieved—and the data thus far supports this, then pre-dental programs must rethink how they prepare students. It’s no longer enough to rely solely on textbooks and lectures. By integrating hands-on, skill-based experiences early on, we can better equip future dentists to meet the demands of modern dental practice.

This project is more than just a study, it’s a call to action. With thoughtful, practical training that aligns with the real-world needs of dentistry, we can reshape the educational journey and ensure our future providers are ready to thrive.