Which platforms offer accredited online dental courses

Okay, so I’m a dental hygienist with about 7 years experience. I’m really interested in advancing my career, but going back to a physical classroom for an extended period is just not feasible with my work schedule and family obligations. I’m looking for accredited online courses that could help me expand my skillset and potentially open doors to new opportunities in the field.

I’m particularly interested in courses that cover topics like:

• Advanced Periodontal Therapy: Something beyond the basics.
• Dental Implants (assisting and maintenance): I know this varies by state, but any courses on this would be great.
• Digital Dentistry workflows: I’d love to learn more about integrating technology like intraoral scanners.
• Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy: A growing field I’m curious about.

Accreditation is key. I need these courses to actually count for something professionally and, ideally, towards continuing education requirements. I’m in California, if that matters for specific accreditation.

I’ve tried searching online, but it’s hard to sift through all the marketing fluff and figure out which platforms are actually legitimate and offer high-quality, accredited programs. I’m hoping someone here has had personal experience with online dental courses and can recommend some reputable platforms.

Basically, who offers legit, accredited online dental courses, and what are your experiences with them? Thanks!

Answer

Several platforms offer online dental courses, though the number offering accredited courses is significantly smaller, and accreditation often varies depending on the specific course and the target audience (e.g., practicing dentists, dental assistants, hygienists). Accreditation is crucial because it signifies that the course meets specific standards set by a recognized body, often allowing for continuing education (CE) credits required for license renewal. It’s always essential to verify accreditation directly with the accrediting body and the platform before enrolling in any course.

Here’s a breakdown of some platforms that offer or have offered accredited online dental courses, along with important considerations:

Key Platforms and Considerations:

• DentalPost: While DentalPost is primarily a job board and professional networking platform for the dental industry, they also host a learning center. They offer a variety of webinars and online courses, often presented by industry experts. Accreditation: Many of their courses are accredited for Continuing Education (CE) credits, often by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Program Approval for Continuing Education (PACE). It’s crucial to check the specific course description to verify the accrediting body and the number of CE credits offered. Their offerings vary, so check frequently for new courses.

• Academy of General Dentistry (AGD): The AGD itself is a significant provider of continuing education for general dentists. While they have in-person options, they also offer a robust selection of online courses and webinars. Accreditation: Being the AGD, courses offered directly by them are generally AGD PACE accredited. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including restorative dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, periodontics, and practice management.

• Various Dental Schools and Universities: Many dental schools and universities are expanding their online offerings for practicing dentists and dental professionals. These courses often cover specialized topics and can range from short webinars to more in-depth certificate programs. Accreditation: Accreditation varies depending on the institution. Generally, courses offered by accredited dental schools are themselves accredited, potentially through the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or a similar body. Some examples include:

  • University of Michigan School of Dentistry: Offers online CE courses, workshops, and mini-residencies. Check the accreditation details for each course.
  • Tufts University School of Dental Medicine: Provides online CE opportunities covering a range of topics.
  • Other Universities: Many state universities with dental schools provide continuing education opportunities. Search for "dental continuing education online" + the name of the university or dental school.

• Online CE Providers (Specifically for Dental Professionals): Some organizations specialize in providing online continuing education specifically for dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants. Examples include:

  • Viva Learning: Viva Learning offers a wide range of courses from different providers, covering various dental topics. Accreditation: Many, but not all, of their courses are AGD PACE accredited. You must verify accreditation details for each specific course before enrolling.
  • Dentaltown: An online community and resource hub for dentists, Dentaltown also offers a significant number of CE courses. Accreditation: Many courses are AGD PACE accredited. Look for the AGD PACE logo and accreditation statement on the course description page.
  • RDH Magazine: Primarily focused on dental hygienists, RDH Magazine provides CE courses relevant to hygiene practice. Accreditation: Courses often offer CE credits accepted by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and state licensing boards. Verify specifics for each course and your state requirements.

Important Considerations Regarding Accreditation:

• Accrediting Body: Different accrediting bodies exist (AGD PACE, CODA, ADHA, etc.). The acceptability of CE credits depends on your specific licensing board’s requirements. Check with your state board of dentistry or dental hygiene to ensure that the credits will be accepted for license renewal.
• Course Specifics: Accreditation is not platform-wide. Just because a platform offers some accredited courses does not mean that all courses on that platform are accredited. You must check the individual course description for accreditation details.
• Expiration Dates: Accreditations for courses can expire. Ensure that the course’s accreditation is current at the time of completion.
• State-Specific Requirements: CE requirements vary significantly by state. Some states require a certain number of credits in specific subjects (e.g., infection control, opioid prescribing). Make sure the courses you choose meet your state’s specific requirements.
• Verify Directly: Always verify accreditation information directly with the accrediting body if you have any doubts or concerns. Contact the organization listed as the accreditor on the course description to confirm its status.

How to Find Accredited Courses:

1. Start with your state board’s website: Most state boards of dentistry or dental hygiene have information on approved CE providers and requirements.
2. Use keywords in your searches: When searching online, use keywords like "accredited dental CE online," "AGD PACE accredited dental courses," or "dental continuing education" along with your specific area of interest (e.g., "implant dentistry," "periodontics").
3. Read course descriptions carefully: Look for explicit statements about accreditation, the accrediting body, and the number of CE credits offered.
4. Contact the provider: If you are unsure about a course’s accreditation, contact the course provider directly to clarify.
5. Keep records: After completing an accredited course, keep a copy of your certificate of completion for your records and for submission to your licensing board.

By carefully researching and verifying accreditation details, dental professionals can find valuable and relevant online courses to advance their knowledge and maintain their licenses.