Evaluation of Knowledge and Attitude of Undergraduate Medical and Dental Students towards Integrative Medicine and Integrative Dentistry: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Background: Integrative medicine (IM) and Integrative Dentistry (ID) is healing-oriented medicine that takes account of the whole person (body, mind, and spirit), including all aspects of lifestyle. It emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and makes use of all appropriate therapies, both conventional and alternative. It includes Ayurveda, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Dietary supplements, Reiki, Homeopathy, Massage therapy, Hypnotherapy,etc Methodology: A self-validated questionnaire study was conducted amongst 600 undergraduate (Indian and Malaysian) dental and medical students to evaluate their knowledge and attitude towards IM and dentistry. Results and Statistical Analysis: The preclinical Indian and Malaysian students showed similar responses to the IM related questions but for ID questions there were varied responses, although not statistically significant different. When the preclinical and clinical dental students were compared, there were differences in the answers for ID related questions. However there was no statistical significance. Conclusion: Although the students are aware and would recommend IM to their patients, the knowledge and attitude towards ID still needs to be explored.