Dental Faculty Members Research Articles

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Fostering Job Engagement

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement among dental faculty members of Kerala, India, as well as to examine whether this relationship varied based on certain demographic variables and general particulars. Data was collected from 353 dental faculties (226 from Private colleges and 127 from Government colleges) using a validated questionnaire. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement, indicating that higher levels of emotional intelligence were associated with higher levels of job engagement. Furthermore, the relationship between emotional intelligence and job engagement was found to be moderated by the provision of the respondents for getting time bound cadre promotions. The study provides important insights into the factors that contribute to job engagement among dental faculties in Kerala, India, and highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. Further research is needed to explore these findings in more detail and to address the limitations of the study.

Beyond the Bite: Exploring Mental Health of Dental Faculty in Pakistan– a multi-institutional study

IntroductionMental health issues are being reported increasingly amongst healthcare staff and students globally. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of common mental health issues amongst dental faculty members at multiple institutions in Pakistan.MethodsFollowing approval from the institutional ethics review board, dental faculty members at 14 dental institutions were invited to participate in an online survey based on globally validated scales for mental health problems including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Two open-ended questions were included in the survey to identify perceived factors contributing to poor mental health and recommendations for improving institutional support.ResultsA total of 200 faculty members out of provided their responses to the survey questionnaire but complete responses were provided by 183 participants which included 120 (65.57%) females, and 63 (34.43%) males. The total number of faculty members at the participating institutions was 426 and 183 responses translated into an overall response rate of 43%. Most participants were in the 31–40 years age-group (n = 81, 44.26%) followed by 25–30 year (n = 51, 22.87%) and 41–50 years (n = 40, 21.86%). The mean score on PHQ-9 was 6.51 (SD ± 5.4) while the mean DASS-21 score was 13.04 (SD ± 10.95). PHQ-9 Depression, and DASS-21 Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scores were all significantly positively correlated for the whole sample, and within each subgroup of each demographic factor. Job-related workload, lack of institutional support, financial limitations, and poor work life balance were identified as the main factors contributing adversely to the mental health of the participants.DiscussionThis study provides useful insights into the scale of mental health status amongst dental faculty members at 14 institutions in Pakistan. Underlying factors affecting the mental health of faculty members adversely were identified and recommendations are provided to address these challenges.

Medical ethics education and awareness: Insights from a study among pakistani medical students and faculty members

This study investigated the knowledge and attitudes towards medical ethics among medical and dental students and faculty members at five medical universities in Karachi, Pakistan. Utilizing a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based design, the research included 438 participants. The study found that while a majority of participants were aware of the four basic principles of medical ethics, only 15.3% could correctly identify all of them. The primary mode of ethics education was through lectures and seminars, with less emphasis on interactive learning methods. The study also revealed a significant gap in faculty engagement and understanding of medical ethics. Although the majority of participants were aware of their institution's ethics committee, a significant proportion were unaware of its existence. The study highlights the need to enhance faculty engagement, address gaps in comprehensive understanding, adopt more interactive teaching methods, and increase the curricular emphasis on medical ethics in Pakistan.

Comparing the effectiveness of educational videos and booklets in enhancing knowledge about odontogenic infections and awareness about seeking dental treatment

Objective: Odontogenic infections are common but often disregarded due to a lack of awareness and knowledge about oral health. Effective health promotion through educational media can enhance understanding and encourage better oral hygiene practices. This study at Universitas Airlangga Academic Dental Hospital is conducted using visual and audiovisual media to educate patients, aiming to assess the efficacy of these media in increasing knowledge and awareness about odontogenic infections, ultimately promoting dental treatment-seeking behaviour. Material and Methods: One hundred eighty-two participants from the Universitas Airlangga Academic Dental Hospital completed the questionnaires to assess knowledge and awareness score increase using either videos or booklets. Results: The statistical test results using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test indicate that both methods influenced the knowledge and awareness scores. The Mann-Whitney test showed P=0.000, which means that the post-test scores of both methods were significantly different. Regarding N gain analysis, the increase in knowledge and awareness was higher when using booklets, with average scores of 2.5585 and 1.7457, compared to using videos, which resulted in increases of 0.3680 and 0.1683, respectively. Conclusion: Booklets were more effective than videos in increasing knowledge about odontogenic infections and awareness of seeking dental treatment.

The impact of clinical audit on antibiotic prescribing in dental practice at Taibah University Dental Hospital.

There is evidence that antibiotics are sometimes prescribed inappropriately by dental practitioners, which can lead to undesirable outcomes. This study aimed to assess the impact of a clinical audit on antibiotic prescribing practices at Taibah University Dental Hospital in Madina, Saudi Arabia. The study retrospectively analyzed antibiotic-prescribing data for pediatric patients by dental interns and faculty members over a period of 8-months. The data collected revealed that inappropriate antibiotic prescription was prevalent initially, with a total of 119 antibiotic-prescriptions issued. After implementing an action plan that included the use of guidelines and educational sessions, a second cycle of the audit was conducted over a 4-month period. During the second cycle, the number of antibiotic prescriptions significantly decreased to 58, indicating a reduction of 48%. Across both cycles, amoxicillin emerged as the most frequently prescribed antibiotic, closely followed by Augmentin. Notably, pulpal diseases and peri-radical complications were consistently ranked as the conditions with the highest number of antibiotic prescriptions in both study periods. The results suggest that the clinical audit, along with the implementation of guidelines and educational sessions, had a positive impact on antibiotic prescribing practices at Taibah University Dental Hospital, leading to a significant reduction in inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions.

Anatomy of a hospitable collaboration: academic hospitality in and for academic development

ABSTRACT We suggest that academic hospitality may be a common, unarticulated practice in academic development. We use two nested collaborations between an academic development unit and a dental faculty to illustrate practices of academic hospitality. The collaboration changed the faculty’s culture of suitability assessment, or assessment of students’ qualifications for professional work. Nested within this collaboration, another collaboration emerged between one of the academic developers and a dental faculty member. They conducted a research study on the cultural change in the faculty as an example of how and why changes might come about in an academic culture. We contend that both collaborations are marked by academic hospitality and exemplify hospitable collaboration.

An investigation into gender distributions in scholarly publications among dental faculty members in Iran

An investigation into gender distributions in scholarly publications among dental faculty members in Iran

Revised evaluation objectives of the Korean Dentist Clinical Skill Test: a survey study and focus group interviews

This study aimed to propose a revision of the evaluation objectives of the Korean Dentist Clinical Skill Test by analyzing the opinions of those involved in the examination after a review of those objectives. The clinical skill test objectives were reviewed based on the national-level dental practitioner competencies, dental school educational competencies, and the third dental practitioner job analysis. Current and former examinees were surveyed about their perceptions of the evaluation objectives. The validity of 22 evaluation objectives and overlapping perceptions based on area of specialty were surveyed on a 5-point Likert scale by professors who participated in the clinical skill test and dental school faculty members. Additionally, focus group interviews were conducted with experts on the examination. It was necessary to consider including competency assessments for “emergency rescue skills” and “planning and performing prosthetic treatment.” There were no significant differences between current and former examinees in their perceptions of the clinical skill test’s objectives. The professors who participated in the examination and dental school faculty members recognized that most of the objectives were valid. However, some responses stated that “oromaxillofacial cranial nerve examination,” “temporomandibular disorder palpation test,” and “space management for primary and mixed dentition” were unfeasible evaluation objectives and overlapped with dental specialty areas. When revising the Korean Dentist Clinical Skill Test’s objectives, it is advisable to consider incorporating competency assessments related to “emergency rescue skills” and “planning and performing prosthetic treatment.”

Educator Competencies in Implant Dentistry among Postgraduate Prosthodontic Dental Faculty in Academic Dental Institutions of India - A Need Analysis

Background Competence-based education is increasingly recognized as essential in dental education, particularly in implant dentistry. This shift focuses on ensuring students achieve and demonstrate essential knowledge, attitudes, and skills required for independent practice. However, the competencies required for dental educators, especially in the context of implant dentistry, are not well-documented. This study aims to assess the current competencies of dental educators in implant dentistry in India and identify the need for further development. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sampling strategy. Data were collected from 125 faculty members across twenty dental institutions in India between June 2022 and June 2023. A self-administered competency-based survey instrument was distributed via Google Forms. The survey included sociodemographic information and assessed perceptions and self-assessment of competencies using Likert scales. Data were analyzed statistically to determine relevance, existing competency levels, and interest in competency development. Results The study found that 90-95% of participants reported a need for an educational competency program. Participants demonstrated basic knowledge and moderate experience in competencies. Relevance of competencies was rated between 69-78%, willingness to develop skills was 80-95%, and existing competency levels were 25-35%. Variations in educational preferences were noted based on age, gender, and qualifications of respondents. Conclusion The results indicate a significant need for competency development programs in implant dentistry among dental educators in India. Such programs are essential to address current gaps in knowledge and practice, ensuring that dental educators are well-equipped to train the next generation of dental practitioners effectively.

Experiences of junior dental faculty transitioning from clinician to educator.

Dental faculty enter academia, after a career in practice or directly from school, without any formal education training. Faculty development programs have been designed based on survey needs assessments, but not on in-depth descriptions of junior faculty transition experiences. The purpose of this research project is to describe the transition experiences of dental faculty from clinician to educator within the last 5 years. A qualitative multiple case study approach from an emic perspective was used. An emic approach is an analysis from the perspective of one who participates in the group being studied. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 junior dental faculty. Thematic analysis identified common themes in the data through the lens of the social cognitive career theory. Three salient themes were extracted from the data: guidance, job satisfaction, and motivating factors. Guidance was the main theme with participants revealing their need for more formal preparation regarding teaching, formal mentorship, and career progression goals. Participants find academia highly rewarding, and a unique finding was that physical injury was a major factor to entering academia. This study reveals that junior dental faculty members feel unprepared for their teaching role and highlights the benefits of mentorship in helping them develop their vocational goals and advance their careers. This study illuminates why clinicians choose to leave clinical practice, the preparation they receive, the areas in which they feel unprepared, and how they develop their teaching skills. These insights can help academic institutions better support their faculty and improve student learning outcomes.

Understanding the perception of sunscreen utility in African Americans.

Dyschromia is a top diagnosis among African Americans (AA). Sunscreen is an essential part of its management, but AA have low sunscreen use. We sought to examine the perception of sunscreen utility in dyschromia and photoaging among patients who identify as AA or Black. This cross-sectional study recruited participants from the Case Western Reserve University Academic Dental Clinic. Participants completed an electronic survey that contained questions related to sunscreen use, knowledge of the sun's role in hyperpigmentation and photoaging, and whether sunscreen could be used for hyperpigmentation and photoaging. Of the 151 participants recruited, 63.6% (n = 96) were women and 36.4% (n = 57) were men. Consistent with previous reports, participants had lower sunscreen use (20.5%) than whites (43.5%). The majority of participants (80.1% and 58.3%, respectively) didn't attribute the sun to hyperpigmentation or photoaging. Participants with dark/brown spots were significantly more likely to not attribute the sun to hyperpigmentation than those without spots. (p = 0.003) Limitations for this study include its small sample size, recall and reporter bias, question misinterpretation, and lack of question neutrality. This study highlights the knowledge gap of a major contributing factor to dyschromia which in turn could be leading to their view of the decreased utility of sunscreen.

Exploring dental professionals’ outlook on the future of dental care amidst the integration of artificial intelligence in dentistry: a pilot study in Pakistan

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to explore the perspectives, familiarity, and readiness of dental faculty members regarding the integration and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry, with a focus on the possible effects on dental education and clinical practice.MethodologyIn a mix-method cross-sectional quantitative and quantitative study conducted between June 1st and August 30th, 2023, the perspectives of faculty members from a public sector dental college in Pakistan regarding the function of AI were explored. This study used qualitative as well as quantitative techniques to analyse faculty’s viewpoints on the subject. The sample size was comprised of twenty-three faculty members. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data was analysed using theme analysis.ResultsPosition-specific differences in faculty familiarity underscore the value of individualized instruction. Surprisingly few had ever come across AI concepts in their professional lives. Nevertheless, many acknowledged that AI had the potential to improve patient outcomes. The majority thought AI would improve dentistry education. Participants suggested a few dental specialties where AI could be useful.ConclusionThe study emphasizes the significance of addressing in dental professionals’ knowledge gaps about AI. The promise of AI in dentistry calls for specialized training and teamwork between academic institutions and AI developers. Graduates of dentistry programs who use AI are better prepared to navigate shifting environments. The study highlights the positive effects of AI and the value of faculty involvement in maximizing its potential for better dental education and practice.

The dental COVID-19 paradox: Disparity in behaviors inside and outside dental schools in Canada.

To describe the personal and professional behavior and assess the perceptions of protection and fear of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among faculty, staff, and students from all 10 Canadian dental schools during the second year of the pandemic. Participants from a Pan-Canadian prospective study answered monthly questionnaires about their activities between April 2021 and March 2022. In May 2022, additional questions were asked about their perception of protection, fear of infection, and instances of COVID-19 testing. Six hundred participants were initially recruited. Over time, the participants spent less time at home and increased their participation in indoor social activities, a trend influenced by the fluctuations in COVID-19 cases (β=‒0.02). Over 90% of the participants were fully vaccinated, which decreased their fear of contracting the virus (χ2[4, 241‒243]=196.07, p<0.0001). Yet, their attitude toward protective measures did not change, and they followed them within school. This work shows a paradoxical behavior among dental students, staff, and faculty members in Canadian dental schools. While factors such as the vaccine's limited efficacy and a desire to protect others may contribute to stringent protective behaviors within dental schools, the mandatory nature of these measures was likely the primary motivator for the compliance. Despite potential efforts to minimize exposure to the virus during risk periods and the frequent COVID-19 testing, this paradoxical behavior raises questions about professional responsibilities extending beyond the workplace. Thus, dental schools should incorporate education about the rationale behind following different protocols and the potential consequences of outside school behaviors.

Balanced Scorecard Approach in Strategic Decision Making in Development of Executive Clinic Universitas Trisakti Academic Dental Hospital 2023 – 2027

Strategic planning enables hospitals to anticipate various ever-changing conditions and provides a roadmap, direction, and means to achieve their goals. The Executive Clinic at RSGM-P FKG USAKTI is a comprehensive and professional healthcare provider offering specialized and public services. However, its role as a profit center has experienced a decline during the two-year pandemic. This research aims to revitalize the Executive Clinic as a profit center for RSGM-P FKG USAKTI. The research methodology employed is operational research. The strategic plan development involves three stages: input, matching, and decision stages. The findings from the research indicate that the input stage resulted in the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) and External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrices with scores of 2.81 and 2.69, respectively. The matching stage utilized the SWOT matrix and IE matrix, recommending the "Hold and Maintain" strategy. The decision stage includes the prioritized strategies, namely, increasing operational hours and enhancing front office services. The identified strategic objectives are to boost revenue, enhance patient satisfaction, capture market opportunities, improve the institution's image, enhance service quality, upgrade the skills of operators, and enhance staff performance.Perencanaan strategis memungkinkan rumah sakit untuk mengantisipasi berbagai macam kondisi yang selalu berubah- ubah serta menyediakan peta perjalanan, arah yang dituju, dan cara untuk mencapainya. Klinik Eksekutif RSGM-P FKG USAKTI merupakan klinik pemberi asuhan yang memberikan pelayanan publik dan spesialis yang komprehensif dan profesional. Kemampuan klinik Eksekutif sebagai profit center mengalami penurunan selama dua tahun pandemi berlangsung. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan klinik eksekutif agar dapat kembali menjadi profit center untuk RSGM-P FKG USAKTI. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah riset operasional. Penyusunan rencana strategi dilakukan melalui tiga tahap, yaitu tahap input, tahap pencocokan, dan tahap keputusan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan input stage dengan nilai Matriks IFE dan EFE sebesar 2,81 dan 2,69. Matching stage menggunakan Matriks SWOT dan Matriks IE dengan rekomendasi strategi Hold and Maintain. Decision stage meliputi strategi prioritas terpilih yaitu meningkatkan jam operasional dan meningkatkan layanan front office. Tujuan strategi yang ditentukan yaitu meningkatkan pendapatan, meningkatkan kepuasan pasien, menangkap peluang pasar, meningkatkan citra yang baik, meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan, meningkatnya skill operator dan meningkatkan kinerja staff.

Retrospective study of the morphology of third maxillary molars among the population of Lower Silesia based on analysis of cone beam computed tomography.

Understanding the anatomy of root canal systems and being aware of their variations is crucial for successful endodontic treatment. Specifically, the intricate and diverse nature of the root anatomy in maxillary third molars poses a significant challenge for dental clinicians. The study analyzed the morphology of the root canal system in maxillary third molars among residents of the Lower Silesia region in Poland using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). This retrospective cross-sectional imaging study was conducted at the X-Ray Diagnostics Laboratory of the Academic Dental Polyclinic of Wroclaw Medical University, Poland. The study evaluated 316 CBCT scans and included 196 maxillary third molars. They were obtained from 118 females and 78 males over the age of 18, in the period from January to April 2022 (three consecutive months). The number of roots, root canals, and root canal configurations according to Vertucci's classification were analyzed. Three-rooted maxillary molars were found most often (64.29%), followed by single-rooted (24.49%), two-rooted (7.65%), and four-rooted (3.57%) teeth. Among all the roots examined, Vertucci Type I root canals were the most prevalent. Our research found that single-rooted forms (40 teeth, 33.89% vs. 8 teeth, 10.26%, p = 0.0013) of maxillary third molars were significantly more common in females than in males. However, three-rooted forms (62 teeth, 79.49% vs. 64 teeth, 54.24%, p = 0.0013) of maxillary third molars were significantly more common in males than in females. In the Lower Silesia region, the typical maxillary third molar in the Polish population has a three-rooted structure with Vertucci Type I root canal configuration. We noted a sex-dependent correlation in maxillary third molar morphology, with single-rooted forms more prevalent in women and three-rooted forms in men.

Exploring the acceptance of geriatric dentistry programming for undergraduate dental students through stakeholder interviews.

Older adults frequently report unmet oral healthcare needs. Current research suggests a lack of provider willingness to perform geriatric dental care plays a role in limiting older adults' access to dental services. To better understand the acceptance of geriatric dentistry programming in Ontario, and to explore considerations for successful implementation, we completed consultations with dental students and dental education stakeholders. Findings from a scoping review we conducted previously (Alicia C. Brandt and Cecilia S. Dong) were used to guide this research. Consultations involved a questionnaire and semi-structured individual interviews. Descriptive and parametric statistics such as Pearson's bivariate correlation and One-way analysis of variance were completed on questionnaire data using SPSS V.28. Interview data were transcribed verbatim, and the content was analyzed using emergent coding and thematic analysis in NVivo. Student and faculty data were analyzed separately and then consolidated. Ten students and 12 dental faculty members completed the questionnaire of which ten students and nine faculty members also participated in interviews. Themes were organized into barriers and facilitators, with a subsection on interprofessional collaboration. Barriers included: 1. Student anxiety and skill level; 2. Constraints of the learning environment; 3. Patient factors; and 4. Knowledge gaps. Facilitators included: 1. Learning environment and culture; 2. Volume of exposure; 3. Soft skills; and 4. Desired interventions. Both students and faculty stakeholders demonstrated acceptance of geriatric dentistry programming at the undergraduate dentistry level that supports improved access to care for this population. Pilot programs integrating different intervention elements which were viewed as most promising would be beneficial.

Impact of Demographic and Work-Related Variables on Job Engagement of Dental Faculty Members of Kerala, India.

This research aimed to examine the association of job engagement among dental faculties in Kerala with certain sociodemographic and job-related factors. Job engagement levels were assessed using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and Kruskal-Wallis test. The findings revealed significant differences in job engagement based on the type of college, level of autonomy, and provision for time-bound cadre promotions. It also provided insights into the nonsignificant effects of gender, age, experience, and income on job engagement. The study contributes to the existing literature on employee engagement and provides valuable insights for organizations aiming to improve employee productivity and overall performance. Future research can build upon these findings to explore additional factors influencing job engagement and expand the understanding of work engagement in different contexts.

Questionable research practices of medical and dental faculty in Pakistan – a confession

PurposeIntellectual honesty and integrity are the cornerstones of conducting any form of research. Over the last few years, scholars have shown great concerns over questionable research practices (QRPs) in academia. This study aims to investigate the questionable research practices amongst faculty members of medical and dental colleges in Pakistan.MethodA descriptive multi-institutional online survey was conducted from June-August 2022. Based on previous studies assessing research misconduct, 43 questionable research practices in four domains: Data collection & storage, Data analysis, Study reporting and Collaboration & authorship were identified and investigated. Descriptive (Frequencies, Percentages, Mean, SD) and Inferential (chi square) statistics were calculated.ResultsA total of 654 faculty members responded. Every respondent reported committing at least one QRP in their career. The most common QRPs included deliberately failing to mention funding, publishing program evaluation data not meant for research purposes or approved by an ethical body, inappropriately storing identifiable information and non-disclosure of any conflicts. There was significant association of age, gender and academic rank with QRPs in ‘Data collection and storage’ and ‘Data Analysis’ domains.ConclusionMedical and dental faculty members participating in this study are involved in a range of questionable research practices (QRPs) in Pakistan. Their confession might have contributed to the faculty developing self-awareness and reinforcing academic integrity. There is a need for reviewing policies and practices to improve research culture. Future research should explore the factors resulting in such practices.

Perceived relevance of oral biology: a comparative study among dental interns and faculty

Background &amp; Objective: This study aims to compare and examine the distinctive perspectives of dental trainees and distinguished faculty members toward the significance of oral biology subject for dentistry, clinical training, and dental education.&#x0D; Methodology: A prevalidated questionnaire consisting of two sections was distributed through Google Forms and handouts to dental interns and faculty members of basic and clinical departments of different dental institutes and hospitals oh Punjab. The data was collected and statistically analyzed using IBM-SPSS version 25. The chi-square test was applied to check the significance of questions regarding perception of oral biology. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered as the threshold for statistical significance.&#x0D; Results: Both groups perceived high relevance of oral biology towards dentistry with slightly more relevance reported by dental interns regarding the importance of oral biology for dental education and clinical training. Regarding the data collected from clinical dental departments Oral surgery department showed the highest relevance of oral biology with dentistry whereas the Orthodontic department considered oral biology most relevant for future clinical training and practice.&#x0D; Conclusions: Dental faculty and interns emphasized the importance of oral biology as a discipline for dentistry, but interns reported substantial application for relevance related to future clinical training and practice.

Evaluation of Glazing and Polishing Systems for Novel Chairside CAD/CAM Lithium Disilicate and Virgilite Crowns.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of glazing, two zirconia, and two lithium disilicate polishing systems on surface roughness of a CAD/CAM lithium disilicate and virgilite ceramic with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and visual assessment performed by dental students and faculty. Sixty maxillary right central incisor crowns made of a novel chairside CAD/CAM lithium disilicate and virgilite (CEREC Tessera) were milled for glazing and polishing. The crowns were divided into six groups: no polishing/glazing provided (NoP/G); glazed (GZ); glazed and polished with Brasseler Dialite LD Lithium Disilicate (DiLD); glazed and polished with Meisinger Luster Lithium Disilicate (LuLD); glazed and polished with Brasseler Dialite ZR Zirconia (DiZR); and glazed and polished with Meisinger Luster Zirconia (LuZR). Surfaces were scanned with AFM to measure roughness (Ra) and root mean square roughness (Rq) and generate micrographs. Crowns were visually assessed by 10 dental students and 10 dental school faculty members to determine clinical acceptableness. Glazing and all polishing kits significantly reduced Ra and Rq compared to no polishing/glazing. No significant Ra differences were found between glazing and all polishing kits (p>0.05). DiZR significantly reduced Rq compared to other groups (p<0.05). Visual assessment showed that GZ, LuLD, and DiZR were the most clinically acceptable crowns. Polishing and glazing considerably improve the surface smoothness of maxillary central incisor crowns fabricated out of a chairside CAD/CAM lithium disilicate and virgilite ceramic. Altogether, zirconia polishing systems provided smoother and more clinically acceptable surfaces than the lithium disilicate kits.