Comparison of self-perceived competence of recent dental graduates from the Universities of Otago and Dalhousie.

Introduction: This study investigates and compares the self-perceived competencies of recent dental graduates from the University of Otago (UoO) (Dunedin, New Zealand) and Dalhousie University (DU) (Nova Scotia, Canada).

Materials And Methods: A validated survey was emailed to recent graduates from the UoO (December 2019) and DU (May 2020). Chi-squared statistical analysis examined the differences between groups.

Nutritional Implications of Baby-Led Weaning and Baby Food Pouches as Novel Methods of Infant Feeding: Protocol for an Observational Study.

Background: The complementary feeding period is a time of unparalleled dietary change for every human, during which the diet changes from one that is 100% milk to one that resembles the usual diet of the wider family in less than a year. Despite this major dietary shift, we know relatively little about food and nutrient intake in infants worldwide and virtually nothing about the impact of baby food "pouches" and "baby-led weaning" (BLW), which are infant feeding approaches that are becoming increasingly popular. Pouches are squeezable containers with a plastic spout that have great appeal for parents, as evidenced by their extraordinary market share worldwide.

The relative frequency of paediatric oral and maxillofacial pathology in New Zealand: A 10-year review of a national specialist centre.

Background: There has been no previous report of the prevalence of paediatric oral and maxillofacial pathology in a New Zealand oral pathology diagnostic service.

Aim: The aim of this study was to review cases of paediatric oral pathology to determine relative frequencies of oral lesions in this age group.

Design: Paediatric oral pathology cases (≤15 years of age) received between 2007 and 2016 were retrieved from the electronic database of the Oral Pathology Centre, University of Otago.

Curriculum development in final year dentistry to enhance competency and professionalism for contemporary general dental practice.

Introduction: General dentistry is the most common area of practice, and new dentists must have the competency and skills to safely deliver patient care. In New Zealand (NZ), completion of a 5-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree enables graduates to register with the Dental Council in NZ. This necessitates that the clinical component of the curriculum in final year dentistry (BDS5) transparently delivers learning opportunities and evaluates competency for independent practice.

An exploratory study of the acceptability of delivering oral health information in community pharmacies.

Objective: The community pharmacy is an accessible service which, with further training and support, could be used to deliver oral health messages. This is important especially for those with systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, where the oral environment may have a negative impact. This qualitative study assessed the feasibility of pharmacists delivering oral health messages in community pharmacies.

The working practices and job satisfaction of dental hygienists in New Zealand.

Objectives: To describe the current working practices and level of job satisfaction of dental hygienists in New Zealand.

Methods: Postal survey of all dental hygienists on the New Zealand Dental Council's database. An initial mailing was followed by a 3-week follow-up.