Investigating the knowledge of fourth and fifth year medical students with respect to dental problems for proper referral to a dentist

Abstract

Aims: It is often assumed that medical students should possess adequate knowledge regarding dental diseases to be able to refer promptly in the future to dental services when needed for appropriate management. There is sufficient evidence to suggest a knowledge gap among medical students regarding dental issues. If findings indicate inadequate overall understanding of oral health, this may lead to fewer referrals to dental services, consequently neglecting patients’ dental health concerns and increasing the risk of both oral and systemic complications. Therefore, the aim of the study is to assess the knowledge of fourth- and fifth- year medical students currently studying at the University of Malta, Medical school with regards to dental diseases and the need for their referral to a dentist. The study will also explore if there is a difference in males and females with regards to dental knowledge. Furthermore, it will also investigate how confident future medical doctors will be when dealing with dental diseases. Moreover, this research will also explore the need for a more interdisciplinary approach between dental and medical schools. Method: The research study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, using a cross-sectional design. Open and closed-ended questions were asked through an online questionnaire. First a convenience sampling was used and then a snowball effect was also implemented to recruit as many participants as possible. The online questionnaire was constructed to investigate sociodemographic information such as gender, age and year in medical school. Dental related questions were then asked to assess dental knowledge. Results: In this study, there were more female respondents 64% than male respondents 36%. The results obtained showed that males and females have the same level of knowledge regarding dental diseases for proper referral to a dentist. It was found that 4th and 5th year medical students also have the same level of knowledge. Conclusion: This study highlighted gaps in knowledge among medical students regarding oral health. Therefore, this study should help to reform the education system. In line with other studies published, students attending the university of Malta Medical school expressed their concern about the lack of training given in dealing with dental problems and when to refer to a dentist.