What are the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a GPR or AEGD after graduation?

I did not do either a GPR or AEGD because I worked as a hygienist for 10 years prior to going to dental school and had a job opportunity with a family member upon graduation. Despite my experience and the support of my family member, I wish I would have gone through a program after dental school. A GPR or AEGD helps you to "get your feet wet" before entering private practice. That way you truly have some time to discover what works well for you. The first year of private practice can be a real challenge. Work out as many kinks as you can before you jump into it.

Jennifer Davis, DMD
Dr. Davis is a 2002 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. She practices in a partnership in Cleona as a general dentist. You can contact Dr. Davis if you wish to inquire with her further.

I did not participate in an advanced program, but the only major advantage that I see with a GPR or AEGD is the increased confidence and efficiency that are gained. The major disadvantage is the delay of earnings.

Wade Newman, DDS
Dr. Newman is a 2000 graduate of West Virginia University. He is a solo practitioner at Bellefonte Family Dentistry in Bellefonte. You can contact Dr. Newman if you wish to inquire with him further.

Some of the advantages of advanced education after dental school, include:

•  An opportunity to gain speed without the pressure of having your salary based on your production
• Learning how to deal with medically compromised patients
• Having a steady salary right out of school.

The disadvantages include:

• You may make more money in private practice
• It is one more year of education after many already
• A GPR requires some level of being “on call.” Programs vary a great deal, however, so researching the particular programs is far more important than the decision to do or not to do. For me it was a no brainer…I recommend it for anyone finishing dental school.

Gino Pagano, DMD
Dr. Pagano is a 2000 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and later completed a GPR at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. He is a general dentist in solo practice at Comfortable Dentistry in East McKeesport. You can contact Dr. Pagano if you’d like to inquire with him further.