The change in self-efficacy of novice dentists in Endodontics within the first year following graduation from Aarhus University or the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam.

Abstract

AIM\nTo understand whether the self-efficacy of novice dentists in Endodontics changes within the first year following their graduation, and to reveal factors related to a possible change.\n\n\nMETHODOLOGY\nData were obtained from dental graduates from Aarhus University, Denmark or from the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The 60 participants filled out the Endodontic General Self-Efficacy Scale questionnaire close to their graduation (baseline) and one year following their graduation (follow-up). Additionally, data on their experience in Endodontics within the first year following graduation were gathered, as well as data on their work environment, their referral behaviour and the post-graduation education they attended. For comparisons, chi-square tests, Fisher s exact tests, Mann-Whitney tests, and t-tests were used. Referral behaviour and the change in self-efficacy were studied by multiple regression analyses.\n\n\nRESULTS\nMost participants showed an increase in self-efficacy after graduation. The increase in self-efficacy was higher for those whose baseline self-efficacy was lower, and lower for those whose baseline self-efficacy was higher. Self-efficacy increased with experience in performing root canal treatments within the first year following graduation. Participants with higher average self-efficacy (i.e. mean of baseline and follow-up self-efficacy) referred patients for endodontic surgery more often than participants with lower average self-efficacy did.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nThe self-efficacy of novice dentists in Endodontics generally increased within the first year following their graduation. The increase in self-efficacy was higher for those who had low self-efficacy at graduation than for those who already had high self-efficacy. Performing root canal treatments was an important factor in increasing self-efficacy.