IE-008 - ADEA Domains of Competence for the New General Dentist

Competency-based education forms the foundation of academic instruction and assessment in dentistry and other health professions, ensuring the health workforce is aligned with population needs and priorities. In 2008, the ADEA House of Delegates approved a framework that defined the essential competencies required for entry into the dental profession as a general dentist. This framework has guided curriculum development, performance assessment, interprofessional collaboration, and improvements in health care outcomes. In 2023, the ADEA Council of Faculties established a workgroup to update this competency framework as a current and comprehensive resource for dental education programs. In this session, members of the workgroup will present the final draft of the revised domains of competence, which has been accepted by the ADEA Board of Directors a resolution at the 2026 ADEA House of Delegates.