Enterprise-wide implementation of digital radiography in oral and maxillofacial imaging: the University of Florida Dentistry System.

The implementation of digital radiography in dentistry in a large healthcare enterprise setting is discussed. A distinct need for a dedicated dental picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) exists for seamless integration of different vendor products across the system. Complex issues are contended with as each clinical department migrated to a digital environment with unique needs and workflow patterns.

Impact of gender on dental state licensure examination performance.

The purpose of this study was to identify performance differences in subgroups of dental students during dental school and on state dental licensure examinations. One of the specific aims was to determine if gender is predictive of performance in dental school and on state licensure examinations. The study consisted of a retrospective analysis of 416 graduates (136 females and 280 males) from the University of Florida College of Dentistry (UFCD) between 1996 and 2003.

Relationship between performance in dental school and performance on a dental licensure examination: an eight-year study.

This study assessed relationships between academic performance in dental school and "first attempt" performance on a state dental licensure examination for 1996-2003 graduates from the University of Florida College of Dentistry (UFCD). The 524 graduates were ranked into quartiles based on graduating GPA. Using analysis of variance (ANOVA), the students' mean exam score (or exam section score) for each respective quartile (n=131) was compared with mean score for graduates in the combined four quartiles (n=524).

Improving performance on the endodontic section of the Florida Dental Licensure Examination.

In an attempt to improve performance of University of Florida College of Dentistry (UFCD) graduates on the endodontic section of the Florida Dental Licensure Examination, a retrospective analysis was conducted for classes graduating between 1996 and 2003 to assess potential relationships between passing and failing performance and three factors with potential impact on "first attempt" pass rates. The three factors were clinical endodontic experience, performance on the senior mock board examination, and dialogue with representatives of the licensure examination, which resulted in modification of the endodontic section of the licensure exam. Using ANOVA, we found no differences in performance on the endodontic section of the senior mock board exam between graduates who passed the endodontic section of the dental licensure exam and those who failed this section.

Does performance on school-administered mock boards predict performance on a dental licensure exam?

Many dental schools consider the successful completion of a state or regional dental licensure examination as one of the significant benchmarks for assessing effectiveness of the curriculum. At the University of Florida College of Dentistry (UFCD), performance on the state dental licensure examination is monitored and compared with senior year mock board performance and clinical productivity to identify factors that may contribute to state board "pass" rates. A retrospective analysis was conducted of "first-time" performance on the Florida Dental Licensure Exam for graduates from classes 1996 to 2003.