Understanding critical thinking in orthodontic residency to transform novices to experts

Critical thinking is a foundational skill essential to achieving the goals of postgraduate orthodontic education. Thoughtful instructional design and formative assessment experiences are crucial in fostering the development of critical thinking among residents. This involves purposeful, self-regulatory judgment, encompassing interpretation, analysis, evaluation, and inference. According to the American Philosophical Association Delphi Consensus, the ideal critical thinker is inquisitive, well-informed, and open-minded. However, current postgraduate educational frameworks lack explicit critical thinking objectives. By creating a learning environment that challenges residents to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information, educators can effectively cultivate these skills. The collaborative efforts of educators and residents are vital in this developmental process, with both parties acting as collaborators in the teaching and learning of critical thinking. Critical thinking in orthodontics is not only developed during residency but is also a lifelong skill. It begins during the training tenure and, with continued practice, helps transform novice residents into expert orthodontists. This lifelong journey ensures that orthodontists remain adept at making sound clinical judgments, addressing complex patient's needs, and staying abreast of advancements in their field. Ultimately, the emphasis on critical thinking equips residents with the ability to provide optimal patient care and adapt to the evolving landscape of orthodontic practice. By fostering an environment that challenges assumptions and encourages reflective practice, educators can empower future orthodontists to provide optimal patient care and adapt to the evolving landscape of orthodontics.