Attitude towards oral biopsy among general dental practitioners of Vadodara, a city in Western state of India

Abstract

Introduction: In practice, the diagnosis of certain oral lesions must be made by biopsy. A biopsy constitutes an essential diagnostic tool in application to patients with oral pathology. However oral biopsy is not routinely performed in general dental practice. The present study aimed to explore the attitudes of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) towards oral biopsy for diagnosis of oral lesions in Vadodara city, Gujarat, India. Methodology: A questionnaire was distributed to 200 general dental practitioners, consisting of several items addressing the socio-demographic and professional aspects and their attitudes towards oral biopsy procedures. Results: Our study showed that 73% of the GDPs do not perform a biopsy on their own. Out of which 32% of GDPs gave the reason of lack of skills and knowledge while 7% of GDPs lacked confidence in performing a biopsy on their own. 28% of the GDPs were not aware of the medium of specimen preservation. Conclusion: There is a need for better education and training of GDPs to perform oral biopsy procedures on their own and create awareness among them about the proper referral of the specimen to oral histopathological centers which will aid in accurate diagnosis of the lesions. Keywords: Oral Diagnosis; Attitudes; Biopsy; General Dental Practitioners; Oral Lesions.