Türkiye'de Ağız ve Çene Cerrahlarının Defansif Diş Hekimliği Konusundaki Bilgi, Tutum ve Davranışlarının Değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to explain the concept of defensive dentistry and to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Turkey regarding defensive dentistry. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, a defensive dentistry behavior scale was used. One hundred and two oral and maxillofacial surgeons were included in the study. Results: In this study, it was found that 43.2% of oral and maxillofacial surgeons practiced 'high', 37.3% of 'moderate' and 19.6% of 'low' level defensive dentistry. Positive defensive dentistry scores of oral and maxillofacial surgeons were found to be higher than negative dentistry scores. There was no significant difference in positive and negative dentistry practices according to the demographic characteristics of the participants (age, gender, marital status, working experiences, working place). Of oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 80.4% stated that they never heard about the concept of defensive dentistry and 91.2% stated that they did not know the content of this concept. Conclusion: This study revealed that in Turkey, oral and maxillofacial surgeons performed a moderate level of defensive dentistry. In order to reduce defensive dentistry practices, oral and maxillofacial surgeons should be provided with a suitable and safe working environment in which they can practice effectively on the basis of law and ethical principles.