333 - Factors Considered by Pediatric Dentists in Determining their Career Choice

Abstract: There is a well understood, nationwide shortage of faculty present in pediatric dental residency programs. This shortage has worsened over time leading to strain in residency programs and a decay in the quality of the education residents receive. The aim of this study is to examine which factors contribute more to the career choice pediatric dentists make and whether these factors have a positive or negative influence. The hope is that residency programs can use this information to make their programs more enticing to potential faculty members. In a pilot study, a brief questionnaire was sent via email to members of the NYU Langone Pediatric Residency asking them to identify their career path and weigh eight factors on how importantly they contribute to that career choice in either a positive or negative manner. Responses were assigned numerical values and scrutinized for differences between response groups. Responses showed work life balance was the most significant factor for all groups. The largest disparity between groups involved autonomy, and the most negative influencing factor for non-academics was the desire to teach. The results suggest further research into what aspects of teaching make it undesirable to hopefully amend these issues and make careers in academia more appealing.