Abstract
Aim Accurate detection and diagnosis of dental caries is an integral part of achieving adequate comprehensive dental care. Furthermore, the high prevalence of caries and generally poor oral health in Saudi Arabia is a public health concern. In addition to necessary preventive programs and awareness initiatives, understanding diagnostic practices plays an important role in garnering broad background knowledge regarding the routine diagnostic means utilized by our targeted respondents. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the methods of caries detection among dental students and dental practitioners in Riyadh using a cross-sectional observational study design. Methods The sample comprised 496 dental students, interns, postgraduate residents, general dental practitioners, specialists, and consultants from the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. A survey was designed to assess caries detection methods, risk assessment practices, and knowledge of advanced diagnostic methods. The responses were correlated with demographic and educational variables. Regression models were used to predict associations. Results 42.3% and 32.7% use sharp explorers in diagnosing caries always and most of the time, respectively. When conducting caries risk assessment practices, 64.4% was very likely to review the patient's medical history and lifestyle. In terms of knowledge of advanced diagnostic methods, 47.8% know “much” to “very much” about FOTI. The knowledge of advanced caries diagnostic methods and practices of advanced diagnostic methods were significantly positively correlated (r = 0.388, P < 0.001). Linear regression analysis indicated that higher experience (10+ years) was associated with higher knowledge regarding advanced caries diagnostic methods (β = 0.27, P=0.009). The mean rank for risk assessment practices was significantly lower in GPs compared to consultants (P < 0.05). Conclusions The use of traditional and invasive methods of caries detection is prevalent among our respondents, while the usage of advanced diagnostic methods is for the most part low. Therefore, we advocate for more minimally invasive approaches and as such encourage the practice and availability of advanced diagnostic methods.
Highlights
Oral health is notably associated with overall health, and diseases of the oral cavity have been deemed a public health concern due to their high prevalence and incidence [1, 2]
Dental caries is the most prevalent oral disease [3]; it is defined as a multifactorial disease caused by acid-producing bacteria that attack and damage dental hard tissue. is condition can be described as a microbial imbalance within the oral cavity in association with factors such as saliva, fluoride exposure, and diet [4, 5]. e prevalence of caries in Saudi Arabia is remarkably high
In addition to background and demographic data, the survey assessed three main categories: (1) caries detection methods, (2) caries risk assessment practices, and (3) knowledge of advanced diagnostic methods (i.e., electronic caries monitor (ECM), QLF, IRLF, and FOTI). e questions were mainly derived from a version of a previously used and validated questionnaire from the College of Dentistry, University of Iowa [24], and were modified and amended to fit the needs of this study
Summary
Oral health is notably associated with overall health, and diseases of the oral cavity have been deemed a public health concern due to their high prevalence and incidence [1, 2]. Is condition can be described as a microbial imbalance within the oral cavity in association with factors such as saliva, fluoride exposure, and diet [4, 5]. E prevalence of caries in Saudi Arabia is remarkably high. A cross-regional meta-analysis conducted in 2010 showed a staggeringly high rate of caries among the Saudi. Caries diagnosis has been defined as identifying or detecting changes in the tooth structure, which are consistent with indicators and factors associated with the disease [10]. Us, in addition to caries risk assessment and prevention, early detection of caries is essential, as it is a determining factor of patient susceptibility to caries and a critical component when designing an appropriate treatment plan [13]. Caries risk assessment is important for understanding the general oral health status of an individual. Several factors can be measured as indicators of oral health; these factors include bacterial count/type, salivary pH level, dietary habits, and fluoride exposure [14]. ese elements are fundamental considerations in clinical examination [15]
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