The nescience of the art of conversing and making the shift happen

Abstract

Background: Motivational interviewing (MI), a patient-centered therapeutic approach, has demonstrated to be effective for a wide range of health behaviors including dentistry. It resolves patient's ambivalence by evoking their own motivation to change, thereby improving clinical outcomes and enhancing clinician patient relationship. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of dental clinicians about MI and predict the likelihood of their use of the MI approach. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was used to collect data. In total, a purposive sample of 600 dentists including dental professionals, postgraduate students, and interns inclusive of both genders participated in the study. Results: The results of this study indicated that dentists had inadequate knowledge about MI and also their practical implication was less. Conclusion: The results of this study may contribute to positive social change by supporting the development of effective training for dental clinicians as MI is helpful in enhancing patient awareness and obedience leading to better therapy outcomes.

Keywords

• behavior change
• effectiveness
• motivational interviewing
• oral health-care professionals
• training