Intraoral and extraoral physical assessment as an essential tool in dental prevention
Keywords:
BOCA; ESTUDIANTES DE ODONTOLOGÍA; EXAMEN FÍSICO; ODONTOLOGÍA PREVENTIVA., MOUTH; STUDENTS, DENTAL; PHYSICAL EXAMINATION; PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY., BOCA; ESTUDANTES DE ODONTOLOGIA; EXAME FÍSICO; ODONTOLOGIA PREVENTIVA.Abstract
Introduction: intraoral and extraoral physical examination is an essential component of preventive dentistry, as it enables the identification of local abnormalities and early signs of systemic diseases, facilitating more accurate and timely diagnoses.
Objective: to analyze dental students’ perception and level of knowledge regarding the importance of intraoral and extraoral physical examinations in preventive practice.
Methods: An exploratory, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on an intentional sample of 100 fourth-semester dental students. A structured survey was administered to collect data on the variables of interest, and descriptive statistical methods were used for analysis, adhering to bioethical principles.
Results: 54 % of students considered it necessary to perform physical examinations at every dental visit, while 21% believed they should be carried out only during the first consultation, and 18 % only when symptoms are present. Regarding knowledge, 47 students reported a sufficient level, with 37 % indicating a preference for educational videos as a learning method. 50 % of students rated extraoral examination as highly useful for detecting pathologies related to oral health.
Conclusions: findings highlight the need to standardize physical examination protocols and strengthen practical training in preventive dentistry. The diversity of perceptions regarding frequency and utility reflects gaps in education that must be addressed through innovative teaching strategies, integrating theory and practice to improve diagnostic quality and comprehensive patient care.
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