Towards a holistic and comprehensive training in dentistry in Guatemala

Abstract

Introduction: Traditional dental education focuses on technical skills and clinical analysis; this is insufficient to develop the comprehensive competencies required in current global practice and the Guatemalan context. The reality of dental practice internationally and in Guatemala, coupled with the growing dental needs of the context, highlights the gap between the current curriculum and the population's needs, demanding an urgent transformation of dental educational models. Objective: To analyze the need for holistic and comprehensive training for dental professionals in Guatemala. Method: The research adopts a qualitative approach. Theoretical level methods were used for information analysis. The search strategy included keywords and Boolean operators in SciELO, Redalyc, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results: Essential elements regarding the training of dental professionals and the need to consider patient-centered holistic-comprehensive training models were identified; integrating technical-clinical, research, managerial, and preventive-promotional competencies. The definition of Comprehensive Training in Dentistry and a Holistic Model for Professional Training in Dentistry are the main contributions of this publication, providing a conceptual framework that addresses identified weaknesses in the country’s curricular models. Conclusions: The need for comprehensive and holistic models to contribute to oral health is evident, and pertinent definitions are established to address the issue.