Motivational Interviewing, Beyond Advice, the Art of Motivation

Abstract

 Beyond advice, the art of motivation is a patient-centered communication tool that seeks to inspire patients to adopt healthier behaviors through empathetic and collaborative conversations. Its application in pediatric dentistry is particularly valuable for encouraging habits such as supervised brushing, reducing the intake of free sugars, and ensuring regular office visits. These practices are crucial for preventing cavities and other oral pathologies. By fostering a stronger therapeutic alliance, improving adherence to treatment, and reducing resistance to change among parents and caregivers, motivational interviewing stands out as a powerful alternative to traditional educational methods. Unlike conventional approaches, it emphasizes exploring patients' ambivalences and supporting their decision-making processes without imposing any influence. This project, rooted in clinical observation, aims to explore the knowledge, use, and perception of motivational interviewing among pediatric dentists in training. A 16-question Google Forms survey was administered to students and professors specializing in pediatric dentistry in Mexico whit 114 responses at the moment. The primary goal was to analyze the barriers and facilitators encountered during the training process, both academically and clinically, for its implementation. The findings from this study provide invaluable insights for refining educational strategies and underscore the importance of acknowledging social and family factors in the development of habits. Motivational interviewing does not seek to convince but rather to generate conversations that respect the pace and emotions of each family. This study aspires to bolster academic training in empathic communication and contribute to more humane, effective, and preventative care in children's oral health.