Integration of a Pilot Oral Health Curriculum into a Medical School Pediatric Rotation

Pediatr Dent. 2021 Jul 15;43(4):258-261.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess changes in medical student knowledge, skills, and beliefs in oral health after participating in an oral health curriculum that included an online learning module, shadowing pediatric dental residents, and applying fluoride varnish. Methods: Third-year medical students completed a precurriculum questionnaire. After completing the online module and clinical experience, students completed a postcurriculum questionnaire. Data were analyzed via descriptive statistics, and outcomes were assessed. Results: There was an improvement in knowledge and oral health-related skills questions postcurriculum. All questions on beliefs toward oral health showed a more agreeable response following the oral health curriculum. Conclusion: Interprofessional collaboration and oral health curriculum integration lead to positively changing the knowledge, attitudes, and skills of medical students.

MeSH terms

  • Curriculum
  • Education, Distance*
  • Humans
  • Oral Health*
  • Pediatrics / education*
  • Schools, Medical