Integrating Curricular Scenarios in the Dentistry Course: the Academic Disciplines of Dental Clinic and Dentistry and Society

Abstract

Objective: Analyze the contributions of integration of the Dental Clinic (DC) and the academic discipline of Dentistry and Society (DS) in training students in the course. Material and Methods: The method used was a qualitative approach, with analysis of documents and semi-structured interviews with students, professors, and patients. The Bardin thematic analysis technique was used to obtain results. Results: Positive impacts were related to the possibility of a more comprehensive approach, emphasizing the human aspects of patient care. Stress points were related to the routine of the dental clinic, patient screening, integration of professors from different areas, communication, and lack of student commitment. Conclusion: The proposal for integration of the DC and of the DS academic discipline is innovative in relation to academic training, with progress in overcoming the fragmented perspective of the dentistry student, allowing greater emphasis on the human aspects of patient care. Nevertheless, it was observed that implementing an integrated course plan is a slow process that depends on the engagement and commitment of those involved to move beyond the traditional educational model centered exclusively on physical cure and technical activity.