Abstract:
Descriptive cross sectional study was carried out to document socio demographic
characteristics, present employment pattern and expectations towards government
employment. 71 percent were engaged in private practice. Universities and defense forces
were the other main sources of employment. A dental surgeon's monthly income had a
median value of Rs. 13,000/=. Forty four percent of dental surgeons were concentrated in
Colombo district. There was no relationship between the district of entrance to the
university and the district of practice. Only 10 per cent practiced hi- tec procedures such as
dental bridges. Almost all preferred to have a compulsory internship and government
employment. At present non availability of government employment is not a serious
problem as the majority are gainfully employed as private practitioners. But it will be a
serious problem within next 3 years. Restriction of intake of dental students to the
university, introduction of a compulsory internship and provision of incentives to those who
wish to establish practices in rural areas need to be considered.
