Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry: A Complete Guide

On 01-11-2024 | Read time about 4 Minutes

A Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry (DipPCD) is an international qualification for General Dentists by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. This qualification is recognized worldwide. Below, we'll cover eligibility, requirements, benefits, fees, exam details, and some preparation tips to help you on your journey toward this diploma.

What is the Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry?

The Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry is a postgraduate qualification that focuses on preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment of common oral health conditions. This exam can be taken by dentists at any stage of their career: newly qualified, those hoping to undertake specialist training or those working in general practice. It’s an excellent way for general dentists to boost their credentials. After passing the exam, you can add "(Dip PCD RCSI)" as post nominals to your name. This is likely to broaden career prospects, attracting better job opportunities as well as patients; particularly in the Middle-East and Asia. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry, applicants typically need to meet the following criteria:

• Qualification: Must have a primary degree in dentistry (such as BDS or DDS).

You may attend the exam at any point in time following graduation.

Exam Timings and Structure

The examination takes the form of an online exam that is 3 hours long.

• 75 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) each consisting of a stem and five branches, with each branch to be independently marked/answered as TRUE or FALSE
• 33 Single Best Answer section each consisting of five statements with only one correct answer.

There is strong emphasis on clinical practice within both components of this examination. Hence, you can ditch the basic sciences books completely.

The next upcoming online exam is held on the 10th February 2025. Closing date for Registration is on the 13th January 2025.

Exam Results

• Candidates who are successful in the exam are awarded the Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry RCSI qualification and may enter directly into the RCSI MFD Part 2 examination.
  

Fees

The fees for the Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry is typically 700 Euros.

Required Exam Equipment for Online Exam Attendance

To access the online Dip PCD RCSI examination, candidates require the following technology: 

1. Internet connection (ideally hardwired ethernet, or alternatively Wi-Fi with continuous internet speed of a minimum of 2MBps, but preferably higher)
2. Laptop / computer with at least 4GB of RAM (no chrome books, tablets or surface pro)
3. A working webcam, microphone and speakers
4. Windows 7+ or Mac 10.10+
5. Intel Core i3 (or equivalent)
6. Mobile phone with a rear facing camera

Preparation Strategy

Success in the Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry exam requires a well-rounded preparation strategy. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the topics outlined in the curriculum.
2. Study Materials: eDental Portal's Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry learning plan is a concise, distilled learning plan, specifically formulated to be easily learnt within just 3 weeks. 
3. Practice MCQs and Past Papers: Reviewing past papers and practicing multiple-choice questions is essential which is available on eDental Portal. The next upcoming online exam is held on the 10th February 2025. Closing date for Registration is on the 13th January 2025. Please enroll for learning from eDental Portal, ONLY once you have registered for the actual exam.
4. Form Study Groups: Joining study groups with peers can provide support, and discussing clinical cases is helpful for both practical and theoretical components. You can create a study group or join an existing one on our Forums here

Summary:

The Diploma of Primary Care Dentistry is a valuable credential for dental professionals aiming to excel in a primary care setting. With enhanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional recognition, it positions you for a rewarding career in general dental practice. By understanding the eligibility requirements, exam structure, and preparation strategy, you can successfully navigate the journey to earning this diploma and advancing in your career.