Knowledge and attitude toward evidence-based dentistry among postgraduate students of a dental college in South India

Abstract

Background: Practicing evidence-based approach has been widely promoted in medicine although this has been to a lesser extent in dentistry. The present study is aimed at assessing the knowledge and attitude of postgraduate students toward evidence-based dentistry. Methodology: The study sample consists of 71 postgraduate students of Mamata Dental College, Khammam. An 11 item multiple choice, close-ended questionnaire was designed to assess the knowledge and attitude of the postgraduate students toward evidence-based dentistry. The results were expressed in percentage and counts. Results: About 49.3% of the students are unaware of evidence-based dentistry, and 29.5% students could apply the concept. About 80% of the students are interested in finding information about evidence-based dentistry and 33% of the students agree that the evidence-based dentistry provides best decision-making skills. A total of 76% of the students agreed that it improves skills in clinical performance.Conclusion: The findings of this study state that there is a need of evidence-based methods as they are the upcoming methods of dentistry. Lack of confidence and availability of resources are important barriers in practicing evidence-based dentistry.