Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Dişhekimliği Fakültesi'ne başvuran hastaların kullandığı dişhekimliği dışı tedavi yöntemleri (ön çalışma)

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the types and frequency of unconventional dental treatment methods used by the patients who applied to a faculty of dentistry. Material - method: In this cross-sectional study a questionnaire consisting of 16 questions was administered to 105 patients aged 18 and over who applied to our clinic during five working days. The questionnaire included questions about the socio-demographic features of the patients; the methods and frequency of unconventional dental treatments that the patients apply to treat themselves. The method of administering the questionnaire was face-to-face interview. Frequency distribution, chi-square and Student t tests have been used in statistical analysis. Results: We found that at any time and during the last year of their life, the frequency of application of unconventional dental treatment methods was not affected by the socio-demographic features (age, gender, educational status, marital status, benefit primary, income level, frequency of dental visit) of the patients (p>0,05). Most frequently used methods were topical application of acetyl-salicylic acid (18,1%), cologne (16,2%) and salt (17,1%) respectively. Discussion: It was found out that the patients were using unconventional dental treatment methods. The patients should be questioned about unconventional dental treatments. In future studies, the reasons of not attending to a dentist and consequences of the application of unconventional methods can be investigated. In conclusion, dentists should know the changes on the oral mucosa related with unconventional treatment methods, the effects of these methods on dental treatment procedures and drug-to-unconventional method interactions.