Dentistry in university education: Philosophy and purpose

Abstract

Tertiary education or further education which is often synonymously used for higher education is to be found not only in universities but also in vocational or technical training schools, institutes, and colleges. Hence, all tertiary education is not equivalent to what is known as university education, but all university education is tertiary education. From this definition, dental education is university education. Therefore, the philosophical domains of dental education is vast and overwhelmingly numerous with great complexity and social significance in line with the philosophy of education as well as philosophy of higher education. Dentistry has evolved from a description of decaying teeth to a comprehensive program of independent professional discipline. Albeit, how dental schools are structured or how dental education is being offered within the university is not universal. Mostly the relationship between dental schools and medical schools and mode of offering dental education and medical education in relation to the overall healthcare system varies significantly. This chapter touches upon the philosophical issues of education in general with focused attention to dentistry as a university education.