Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Dental Practitioners in Kerala on Clinical Decision Support Tools in the Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries

Abstract

Abstract Background: Traumatic dental injuries (TDI’s) be it simple or complex are one of the most frequently encountered oral health problems of public health concern. The quality of the treatment provided by the practitioners can affect the overall prognosis of the affected teeth. To achieve optimal clinical success, evidence-based knowledge in the management of TDIs is essential. There is rapid accessibility of information through clinical decision support tools (CDST) (mobile applications and guidelines) which can be utilised by practitioners for efficient management of TDIs. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices of dental practitioners in Kerala on the use of CDST in the management of TDI’s. Settings and Design: This was an observational cross-sectional study. Subjects and Methods: A close-ended validated electronic questionnaire with 37 questions was circulated amongst100 dental practitioners from October to December 2023. Participation in the study was voluntary and all responses were anonymous. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics was used to summarise the characteristics of survey respondents and their responses. Results: Practitioners were somewhat confident (77%) or neutral (33%) in planning the treatment of TDI and 25% were extremely confident. Most of the practitioners were not aware of CDST (64%). Amongst the practitioners who were aware of CDST (34%), 60% used mobile applications for managing TDI. Seventy-four percentage of the practitioners had knowledge on the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines and 80% of them had used it for treatment planning. Conclusions: The current results demonstrated a lack of knowledge amongst practitioners regarding CDST. Hence, there is a need for planned interventions to create and propagate awareness regarding the same.