Knowledge and application of Natural and Traditional Medicine in stomatological emergencies. Arroyo Naranjo

Given the importance of the use of Natural and Traditional Medicine (NTM) in the treatment of stomatological emergencies, it was decided to carry out a cross-sectional descriptive observational research, with the purpose of evaluating the level of knowledge that stomatology professionals have about the use of NTM in stomatological emergency services during 2015. The universe consisted of 104 professionals of different categories. We analysed variables such as: sex, age, speciality, years of graduation, knowledge of MNT, and the most commonly used techniques. To achieve this, forms were developed to explore these aspects. In the sample of stomatologists studied, the female sex and the 20-35 age group predominated, representing 52.9% of the total number of stomatologists surveyed. The average level of experience was between 1 and 10 years of graduation, and the dentists were representative of all the stomatological specialities. The use of MNT was 68.2%, with the residents (EGI speciality) being the ones who applied it the most; this group of stomatologists had the most knowledge on this subject. The most applied techniques were Phytotherapy and the use of propolis, being the Residents and Basic General Stomatologists the ones who use it the most. The evaluation of the level of knowledge of the stomatologists in terms of MNT was not satisfactory; therefore, it is necessary to deepen in this subject in order to achieve a greater incorporation of professionals in the practice of MNT.