Wilson Chediek

In Portugal, the Portuguese Dental Council (OMD) regulates four specialties: Oral Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, and Periodontology. To obtain a specialty title, candidates must meet general requirements, submit applications, undergo a curriculum evaluation, and take theoretical exams and clinical case discussions. Those who meet the required criteria and pass the assessments receive the corresponding titles.

Currently, OMD is implementing sectoral competences in various areas, including orofacial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction; sports dentistry; digital dentistry; forensic dentistry; conscious sedation in dentistry; acupuncture in dentistry; dental laser applications; orofacial harmonization; healthcare unit management; dental sleep medicine; and dental ozone therapy.

Each sectoral competence requires interested professionals to register with OMD, demonstrate clinical experience, obtain minimum training in the specific area, and submit relevant clinical cases. Furthermore, the regulations stipulate the need for ongoing training every three years to maintain competence. Non-compliance with this requirement may result in the revocation of access to the competence.

The application process involves submitting documents such as resumes, training certificates, proof of clinical experience, and clinical case reports.

Among the sectoral competences, a specific regulation is being developed for the Orofacial Harmonization Sectoral Competence, which establishes rigorous criteria for the safe and ethical practice of this specialty. The regulation aims to ensure that orofacial harmonization is performed in accordance with professional standards, promoting the safety and well-being of patients.