What are the top online platforms for dental continuing education in 2025

I’m a practicing dentist looking to fulfill my CE requirements for 2025. I’m really hoping to find some high-quality online courses that fit my busy schedule. I’m particularly interested in learning about advancements in cosmetic dentistry and implantology. I’ve used a few platforms in the past, but the quality has been uneven – some were great, some felt like a complete waste of time.

So, what are the best online platforms for dental CE in 2025? I’m looking for:

• Accredited CE courses: Obviously, the courses need to be accredited so I can get the proper credit.
• High-quality instruction: I want experienced instructors who are actually experts in their fields.
• Engaging content: Videos, interactive elements, case studies – something more than just reading text on a screen!
• Good reviews: What are other dentists saying about their experiences with these platforms?
• Reasonable pricing: I’m willing to pay for quality, but I’d like to know what the cost generally looks like. Are there subscription models or pay-per-course options?
• Mobile accessibility: Can I access the courses on my phone or tablet? I often have downtime during my commute.

Ideally, I’d like to know which platforms consistently offer updated content, specifically in cosmetic procedures like veneers and bonding, and the latest techniques in implant placement and restoration. Also, are there any platforms that offer live, interactive webinars or simulations? I think that would be a great way to learn. What are the platforms I should be considering as I plan my CE for next year?

Answer

Predicting the top online platforms for dental continuing education (CE) in 2025 requires analyzing current trends, emerging technologies, and the evolving needs of dental professionals. Here’s a breakdown of potential leading platforms, considering various factors:

Established Players Likely to Remain Prominent:

• Dental Learning (formerly Nobel Biocare Digital Learning): This platform provides CE courses from Nobel Biocare and other partners. Its strength lies in its direct connection to a major dental implant manufacturer, offering specialized education in implant dentistry and related areas. The platform is known for its high-quality video content, interactive elements, and expert-led courses.

• ADA CERP Recognized Providers: The American Dental Association’s Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP) accredits CE providers. Platforms affiliated with universities, dental schools, and established dental organizations often carry the ADA CERP seal. These platforms, while diverse, generally offer a wide range of topics and often cater to specific state licensing requirements. Examples include platforms offered by state dental associations, university dental schools (like the University of Michigan or UCLA), and organizations like the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). These established platforms gain credibility and maintain their popularity through ADA CERP accreditation.

• Glidewell Online Study Club: Part of Glidewell Laboratories, this platform provides on-demand video content covering various topics in dentistry. It differentiates itself by offering content directly related to Glidewell products and services, allowing dentists to learn practical techniques.

Emerging Platforms and Trends to Watch:

• Platforms Leveraging AI and Personalized Learning: The future of CE will likely involve more personalized learning experiences. Platforms using AI to assess individual knowledge gaps and recommend specific courses will gain traction. These platforms may use adaptive testing, personalized learning paths, and AI-powered feedback to optimize the learning process. They can also leverage AI to translate content, create interactive simulations, and provide real-time assistance to learners.

• Interactive Simulation-Based Platforms: As technology advances, platforms offering virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) simulations of dental procedures will become more popular. These simulations will allow dentists to practice techniques in a safe and controlled environment, improving their skills and confidence. The platforms may use haptic feedback technology to simulate the feel of working on real teeth, providing a more realistic experience.

• Subscription-Based CE Platforms: Offering all-you-can-learn access to a library of CE courses for a monthly or annual fee is becoming more common. This model offers flexibility and affordability, making it attractive to dentists who want to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements.

• Mobile-First Platforms: With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, platforms optimized for mobile devices will be more accessible and convenient for dentists to learn on the go. They can take courses during their commute, between patients, or at home. The platforms will likely offer offline access to content, allowing dentists to learn even without an internet connection.

• Platforms Focusing on Teledentistry and Digital Dentistry: As teledentistry and digital dentistry become more integrated into dental practice, platforms offering specialized education in these areas will be in high demand. The courses will cover topics such as remote patient monitoring, virtual consultations, digital imaging, CAD/CAM dentistry, and 3D printing.

• Platforms Emphasizing Interdisciplinary Learning: The trend towards interdisciplinary care will drive demand for platforms offering CE courses that integrate dentistry with other healthcare fields, such as medicine, pharmacy, and physical therapy. The courses will cover topics such as oral-systemic health, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), and sleep apnea.

Factors Influencing Platform Success:

• Quality of Content: The accuracy, relevance, and up-to-dateness of the course material is crucial. Platforms that partner with leading experts and researchers will have a competitive advantage.

• User Experience: A user-friendly interface, easy navigation, and seamless access to content are essential. Platforms that offer personalized learning paths, interactive elements, and social features will engage users more effectively.

• Accreditation and Recognition: ADA CERP accreditation and recognition by other dental organizations will be important for dentists seeking to fulfill their CE requirements.

• Cost and Value: The price of CE courses or subscriptions must be competitive and offer good value for the money. Platforms that offer free trials, discounts, and bundled packages will attract more users.

• Integration with Practice Management Software: Platforms that integrate with practice management software will streamline the CE process for dentists. The integration will allow dentists to track their CE credits, manage their licenses, and automatically submit CE reports to licensing boards.

Potential Leading Platforms in 2025 (Based on the above analysis):

It’s difficult to definitively name the top platforms, but likely contenders include:

1. An Established Dental School CE Platform (e.g., University of Michigan): Leveraging their reputation and accreditation.
2. A Platform Using AI and Personalized Learning: A new entrant that offers a unique learning experience.
3. Glidewell Online Study Club: Continues to be popular because it is practical and is related to laboratory products.
4. Dental Learning: Continues to be popular due to its relation to Nobel Biocare products.
5. A Subscription Based Platform That Leverages Mobile Learning: For example, a platform that aggregates ADA CERP courses and allows for access through a phone app.