Summary
During the government of President Patricio Aylwin Azocar in Chile, the Dental Department of the Ministry of Health was created, directed by Dr. Olaya Fernández, allowing the creation of the Dentistry Career at the University of La Frontera in 1992. The study plan was based on the SPICES model and focused on teaching, service, and research, with an emphasis on prevention. Four curricular lines were defined: Public Health, Morphofunction, Semiology, diagnosis and treatment, and Man, culture and society. Professors Dr. Matamala, Dr. Henríquez and Dr. Thomas, have been essential in the training of students for 30 years, promoting academic excellence and an interest in anatomy. They tell us that over the years, student profile has not experienced significant changes in terms of academic excellence. However, challenges have been noted, such as poor preparation in secondary education and fewer students’ responsibilities. They also mention that impediments in training include reduced study hours in Morphological Sciences and the lack of appreciation of Neuroanatomy. Challenges include effective integration of basic sciences along with clinical sciences, comprehensive training in anatomy and availability of anatomical models. Infrastructure, cadaveric material, and audiovisual systems are essential for quality instruction in anatomy, and ongoing investment in these resources is required. In conclusion, these instructors have left an important mark on the training of dentists, and each year they face new challenges. Addressing these issues is crucial to maintaining the quality of dental education and preparing students for success in their future professional practice.
KEY WORDS: Dentistry formation; Morphological sciences; Tribute; University instructors; Challenges.
How to cite this article
FUENTES, R. & VENEGAS, C. Thirty Years of Morphological Training in Dentistry: In Recognition of Instructors of the Universidad de La Frontera, Chile. Int. J. Odontostomat., 19(1):1-7, 2025.
