PERIODONTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AMONG INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Proper knowledge and awareness of oral diseases are crucial in medical practice because periodontal disease is associated with multiple systemic conditions. Systemic diseases and drugs have oral manifestations as well as adverse reactions. This study aims to assess periodontal health awareness among medical students of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). This cross-sectional study utilised questionnaires which were distributed to fourth and final year medical students of IIUM Kuantan. Questions pertaining to oral health, periodontal disease and its relation with systemic conditions were given. A total of 93 students completed the survey questionnaires. 3% of them have an awareness that periodontal disease is related to the gingiva. 10% of respondents agreed that dental plaque is the primary cause of periodontal disease. 80% of respondents have knowledge of associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions. 97% of respondents showed a positive attitude for a referral to a dentist in the future. The participants have superficial knowledge and awareness about periodontal disease and its relation to systemic conditions. However, they have a positive attitude for future practice towards their patients. Hopefully, this research may provide a direct suggestion to incorporate basic periodontal knowledge in their medical syllabus.