Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Among Practicing Dentists Toward Inclusion of Patients Suffering from Psychosomatic Disorders in their Practice: A Cross-Sectional Study
Medhana M. Mangaonker, Manisha M. Khorate, Pratiksha Keny, Sushmita WayadandeBackground:
In recent decades, particularly following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there has been growing uncertainty in individuals’ way of life, significantly increasing the need for healthcare providers to acquire knowledge about psychosomatic disorders and their associated features. This need is further driven by the rise in psychological stress caused by challenges such as economic instability, job insecurity, social isolation, digital overload, climate change anxiety, political unrest, and the ongoing impact of global health crises.
Objective:
To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the dental practitioners based on years of practice and to evaluate their knowledge of the oral manifestations of psychosomatic disorders.
Methods:
A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted between December 2023 and March 2024 among private dental clinicians from two districts in our state.
Results:
Among 300 participants, 89% of the clinicians were aware of psychosomatic disorders (
Conclusion:
A dental clinician’s knowledge about psychosomatic disorders enhances their ability to diagnose, destigmatize, provide proper counseling and referral to psychiatrists, along with dental treatment for the well-being of the patient.