The Impact of Contemplative Practice in Dental Education: A Qualitative Study in General Dentistry

This study explored perceptions of dental postgraduates regarding the impact of contemplative practice in a patient care aspect.

The qualitative research approach using semi-structured interview was employed. Postgraduate students from the General Dentistry Residency Training Program were selected by purposive sampling by considering sex and working experience. The retrieved data were transcribed using a verbatim technique and analyzed using framework analysis.

There were 12 students participating in this research. The retrieved data were analyzed and categorized into two main themes, which were mindfulness and humanized patient-centered care paradigm. Mindfulness can be categorized into four subthemes to represent its required skills, including concentration, deep listening, emotional regulation, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skill. There were six subthemes for humanized patient-centered care paradigm, which were understanding in patients' context, development of individualized comprehensive treatment planning, treatment with humanization and compassion, management with phycological integrated care, rapport establishment with patients, and good attitudes toward special care needs patients. These skills are considered necessary for patient-centered dental practice, which could be expected from the learning process through contemplative practice.

This research supports the implementation of contemplative practice in dental education, as the data demonstrated the positive impact of contemplative practice in both personal and professional perspectives. These included the cultivation of mindfulness and other relevant skills, which were required for humanized patient-centered care in dental practice.