Knowledge, awareness and attitude of oral health and root canal treatment among medical professionals

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Background: Oral health is also considered as an integral part of the overall health of individuals where it acts as a mirror of the body and general health. Medical professionals have an early opportunity to diagnose the signs of oral disorders and can help dental professionals for timely intervention. Materials and Methodology: After taking an informed consent, a standard questionnaire was asked to be filled by a total of three hundred and twenty seven participants (Doctors, Medical and Nursing students). Analyses were done with regard to knowledge, practice and awareness of oral dental health of the participants. The data was analyzed using chi-square test for categorical data. Results: Regarding the knowledge of oral health, 92% of the participants were aware that brushing prevents tooth decay and periodontal diseases. Regarding the attitude towards oral health, 81% of the participants were aware that dental check-up is necessary during pregnancy. Regarding awareness about oral health, 83% knew that oral and general health were related. Regarding root canal treatment, only 57-73% participants correctly responded to the given questionnaire. However, a statistically significant difference was observed between medical and nursing professionals regarding knowledge pertaining to oral health and root canal treatment. The oral health knowledge, attitude and awareness was limited to very few areas like importance of brushing, the importance of maintaining oral health during pregnancy and relation of oral and general health. However, knowledge about preserving the grossly decayed tooth by root canal treatment and its success was very limited in medical professionals. Conclusion: Medical professionals have better knowledge, awareness and attitude about oral health than nursing students and faculty.