Evaluation of periodontology speciality education in dental faculties in Turkey by speciality students

Objective: This study aims to evaluate how the specialization training in periodontology at dental faculties in Turkey is perceived by research assistants in this field. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional survey study. A questionnaire was developed by reviewing similar studies, the Regulations on Specialization Training in Medicine and Dentistry, and the Periodontology Curriculum. The questionnaire includes 29 questions (1 open-ended and 28 closed-ended) and was created using Google Forms. The link was sent to the email addresses of specialty students. Analyses were performed using IBM SPSS 25, with categorical data expressed as frequencies and percentages. The significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: A total of 209 specialty students participated. Most chose the periodontology department willingly. Many students feel inadequate in advanced surgical procedures. Differences were noted among faculties regarding daily patient numbers and types of surgical procedures. A significant portion of participants expressed interest in rotating in prosthetic treatment. Scientific seminars were more frequently conducted than other educational activities. The desire to become academics was less than the desire not to. Students in later stages felt more competent in surgical treatments, yet many believe their training does not provide sufficient knowledge and experience. Conclusion: Differences and shortcomings were identified in the periodontology specialization training in Turkey. Variations in patient numbers and surgical experiences suggest a lack of standardized education. To improve competency, student quotas should be increased, and a control mechanism for standardization should be established.