Community-based dental education (CBDE): situational analysis of current practices in Australia and comparison to best practice

Evidence supports community-based dental education (CBDE) to enhance students' skills and prepare them for independent practice. This study aimed to understand CBDE implementation in Australia, compare to international evidence and formulate a framework for best practice. Methods included a scoping review, a mixed-methods study, and an interpretive phenomenological analysis. The scoping review provided groundwork for understanding CBDE impact on student development while the mixed ­method study offered details of CBDE implementation across Australian universities. The qualitative study focused on the challenges of implementing CBDE, offering practical recommendations for program improvement. Recommendations include effective stakeholder partnerships, tailored curricula, and continuous program evaluation.