Silver diamine fluoride: knowledge of dentists in Upper Egypt – a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives To assess knowledge level about silver diamine fluoride (SDF) among dentists in Upper Egypt. Patients and methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of registered dentists in Upper Egypt using a validated, well-constructed electronic questionnaire to assess dentists’ knowledge level regarding using SDF. Results 40.3% of dentists had never heard about SDF. Sixty four percent of dentists had low knowledge about SDF as they answered less than 50% of knowledge questions correctly, and only 25% of dentists had good knowledge about SDF as they answered more than 70% of knowledge questions correctly. Conclusion Majority of dentists in Upper Egypt had low level of knowledge regarding SDF material. Pediatric dentistry speciality, years of professional experience and respondents practicing in teaching hospitals were more likely associated with good knowledge about SDF [odd ratio (OR)=3.30; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.58 to 6.89; P = 0.001, OR = 2.77. 95% CI = 1.37 to 5.59; P = 0.005, and OR = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.09 to 3.74; P = 0.025, respectively].