Dental Knowledge Research Articles

Rational Antibiotic Prescribing Is Underpinned by Dental Ethics Principles: Survey on Postgraduate and Undergraduate Dental Students' Perceptions.

Dentists bear the burden of responsibility for antimicrobial resistance since antibiotics are the drugs most prescribed by dentists. Often, "inappropriate" antibiotic use is considered as a "gray area" by dentists mainly due to ethical challenges associated with the clinical judgement depending on patients and/or prescribers. The study aimed to assess whether and in what way dental ethical principles underpin rational antibiotic use by investigating perceptions of postgraduate and undergraduate dental students without formal knowledge of dental ethics. A cross-sectional anonymous survey comprised nine close-ended questions and was conducted among dental students (n = 125). The investigated practice of appropriate antibiotic prescribing in the survey relied on the respect of three basic principles of ethics: autonomy, non-maleficence, and beneficence. Results show that dental students exhibit a lack of dental ethics knowledge that results in an inappropriate antibiotic-prescribing practice: prescribing an antibiotic when it is not necessary, without examination, or for indications that are not within the competence of the dentist. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between under- and postgraduates. Within the pharmacology course, a review of the clinical scenarios which cover both ethical and clinical complexities regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics should be introduced as an educational approach.

A survey on the knowledge and perception of orthodontic clear aligner systems among general dentists

To date, there is no information available on the general dentist’s experience with Clear Aligner case selection, type of clinical practice etc. Therefore, the purpose of this survey was to evaluate the knowledge of general dentists in their experience and types of dental malocclusion treated with CA, the patients demand and perception of CA treatment.A structured questionnaire was created to evaluate the knowledge and perception of clear aligner therapy among the general dentists. The study sample comprised of 196 licensed general dental practitioners who had more than 2 years of clinical experience post graduation. The structured questionnaire included 17 closed ended questions which sought to assess the knowledge and perception of Clear Aligner Therapy among the general dentists.There is a need for increased education and awareness among general dentists to enhance their knowledge and expertise in providing clear aligner treatment.: Overall, clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment by offering improved aesthetics, patient acceptance, and quality of life.

Knowledge and attitude of general dental practitioners and pedodontists toward silver diamine fluoride in Maharashtra

Despite advancements in preventive dentistry, the prevalence of caries, particularly in pediatric populations, continues to be a significant public health challenge. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has emerged as a promising and cost-effective intervention in preventing and managing dental caries, demonstrating notable success in arresting the progression of cavities. The present study aims to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of general dental practitioners (GDP) and pedodontists in Maharashtra concerning silver diamine fluoride The present cross-sectional study was conducted using a 10-point questionnaire comprising questions relevant to the knowledge and attitude of general practitioners and pediatric dentists regarding the use of SDF. The survey was circulated to 578 dental professionals of which 332 opted to fill out the form, making the survey response rate of 57.44%. The datasheet of responses was extracted through Google Sheets and subjected to statistical analysis: The study population (n=295) comprised 249 GDP and 46 Pediatric dentists. Despite 75.6% of respondents being aware of SDF, only 43.7% were aware of the Silver-modified atraumatic restorative technique. The awareness about both, the advantages as well as disadvantages of SDF was significantly lower (p<0.05) among GDP. About 42% of respondents (n=124) were not aware of the fact that SDF application does not require local anesthetic or drilling. Findings from the present study highlight significant differences in knowledge levels between GDPs and pediatric dentists, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions tailored to the distinct needs of each group. Addressing these knowledge gaps is essential for promoting informed decision-making and optimizing the integration of SDF into routine dental practice.

Reconnoitering the Dental Knowledge and Attitude of Pediatricians in the Western Uttar Pradesh Region of India

Reconnoitering the Dental Knowledge and Attitude of Pediatricians in the Western Uttar Pradesh Region of India

Pediatric oral and dental health knowledge in child development students

Pediatric oral and dental health knowledge in child development students

Knowledge and attitude of dental trauma among dental students in trace region of Turkiye

Background: The study aimed to determine the level of knowledge of Trakya University Faculty of Dentistry 4th and 5th grade students about the diagnosis and clinical management of dental traumatic injuries and to evaluate the effects of factors such as the students’ age, gender, and study period. Methods: Total of 180 participants who were students in Trakya University Faculty of Dentistry were evaluated in 2022. The questionnaire comprised three chapters: the first chapter contained sociodemographic information, the second chapter contained general information such as trauma history, clinical experience, dental trauma education, and self-assessment of dental trauma knowledge, while the third chapter contained questions about the clinical management of dental trauma. Questionnaire reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, which was found to be 0.717. This indicates acceptable internal consistency (0.8>α≥0.7). The survey data underwent analysis using the chi-square test, the Mann-Whitney U Test, and multiple regression analysis. Results: A total 180 dentistry students in Trakya University participated in the survey. While 90.6% of the participants stated that they had not experienced any dental injury while continuing their education, 50.6% stated that they witnessed dental injury. 71.1% of the participants reported having a moderate level of knowledge regarding dental injuries. The results about clinical management of dental trauma showed that median level of case knowledge of the participants was 11. Considering that the highest score that can be obtained is 20, the participants are considered to have moderate case knowledge. When case knowledge level differed according to socio-demographic characteristics, it also differed significantly according to gender (z=-3.811; P<0.01). The case knowledge score (n=12) of the female participants is higher than the score of the male participants (n=10). Conclusion: The knowledge of dental students about the management of dental trauma was accepted but moderate.

Green dentistry: Assessing dental students' knowledge, understanding of, and compliance to amalgam waste disposal protocols through clinical audit

Green dentistry: Assessing dental students' knowledge, understanding of, and compliance to amalgam waste disposal protocols through clinical audit

Comparison of knowledge, awareness, and behaviors toward oral cancer among dental students and dentists: an online cross-sectional questionnaire in Türkiye

ObjectiveThis cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study evaluated the knowledge, awareness, and behaviors of dentists and senior dental students regarding oral cancer (OC).Materials and methodsThis study included 168 dentists and senior dental students who had completed all theoretical educations and clinical practices. An online survey was administered to all participants to assess their awareness of the risk factors for OC, clinical knowledge, and behaviors. The participants’ demographic characteristics and knowledge of OC were analyzed.ResultsOf the participants, 48.8% were female and 51.2% were male. Their mean age was 27.04 ± 5.56 years (range: 21–51). In addition, 59.5% were dentists, and 40.5% were senior dental students. The dentists’ mean time since graduation was 6.38 ± 5.64 years (range: 1–27). Routine oral mucosa examination for OC was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05). Among all participants, 33% of dentists and 51.5% of senior dental students had poor knowledge of OC-related or possibly predisposing factors. Routine evaluation of OC-related and predisposing risk factors, including human papillomavirus infection, smoking, alcohol use, trauma-related non-healing oral lesions caused by long-term incompatible prostheses, and poor oral hygiene, was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05).ConclusionEducating dental students about a more comprehensive oral examination and early diagnosis of OC would help overcome the current lack of adequate knowledge and attitudes in OC prevention and early detection. A core curriculum compatible with the global standards on OC should be provided to dental students.

Evaluation of the Knowledge and Attitudes of Dentists Working in a University Hospital in Afyonkarahisar Regarding Rational Drug Use

Background: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of dentists working in a dental faculty in Türkiye about rational drug use. Methods: In this observational study, a 20-question questionnaire measuring participants' knowledge and attitudes towards rational drug use was administered face-to-face to 59 dentists working in a university hospital in Afyonkarahisar. The obtained data were analyzed with the SPSS-20 program. Results: Fifty-two dentists (16 academics, and 36 research assistants) participated in the study (The participation rate was 89.65%). The most frequently used information sources by the participants while prescribing drugs were the internet (27.56%) and colleagues (24.35%), respectively. Allergic status and pregnancy status were the most frequently asked questions by the participants in the anamnesis of the patients while prescribing drugs (94.2%). approximately one-third (32.7%) of the dentists stated that they did not inform the patient about the "side effects of the drug". The subjects that the participants felt most inadequate about the drugs were price information, bioequivalence, drug interactions and side effects, respectively. 63.5% of the participants think that both the level of medical drug knowledge and the level of knowledge about rational drug use are insufficient. Conclusion: This study revealed the knowledge gaps and the need for training on rational drug use among dentists. to dentists. Rational pharmacotherapy training should be given to dentists before and after graduation. Keywords: Rational drug use; drug prescribing; survey; dentistry; dentist.

Dental hygienists' knowledge, performance confidence and awareness of importance of assessing oral cancer risk factors.

To assess the knowledge, confidence and awareness of the importance of assessing oral cancer risk among dental hygienists working in Korea and to provide data for the development of theoretical and technical curricula related to oral cancer prevention tasks. Questionnaires were distributed to 195 dental hygienists, recruited from an online posting. Survey questions were related to the study objectives and demographic characteristics of the participants. An independent t-test and one-way Analysis of Variance were performed to determine the relationships between study variables and participant demographic characteristics. Seventy-five percent of the participants agreed that it is necessary to conduct oral cancer risk factor assessment for patients, while 46% agreed it was the duty of dental hygienists. The percentage of participants responding correctly to oral cancer risk factors and to oral cancer characteristics ranged from 98% to 31%. Participants with a master's degree or higher and those with oral cancer education experience were significantly (p < 0.003, p < 0.007, respectively) more aware of the importance of assessing oral cancer risk factors. Participants, who performed non-treatment-related work, had significantly (p < 0.046) greater performance confidence than that of clinicians. In addition, 52.5% of the participants had no prior education in oral cancer and 80.8% agreed that additional education and training were required. To improve dental hygienists' knowledge of oral cancer risk factors, it is important to provide specific knowledge, and an educational curriculum is necessary that allows incorporating medical interviews, visual inspections and palpation for comprehensive assessments.

The impact of three learning methods on dental students' satisfaction and knowledge acquisition.

Health professionals' education presents unique challenges including clinical application of knowledge and interprofessional collaboration. Additionally, institutions suffer from faculty shortages while class sizes increase. Therefore, educators seek innovative andragogical techniques utilizing minimal resources. Several active learning methods have been introduced as a solution. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of lecture (LBL), case (CBL), and team (TBL) based learning on the students' satisfaction and knowledge attainment. A total of 134 sophomore dental students are taught pediatric dentistry course using LBL, CBL, and TBL techniques. At the end of the course, students are invited to participate in a satisfaction survey. Statistical analysis is conducted using a two-sided chi-square goodness of fit test. Students' comments are used for qualitative analysis. Final exam analysis is administered via Examsoft software. A total of 98% of the students participated in the survey out of which 83% met the inclusion criteria (N=110). Students chose LBL as the method that helped them learn in a comprehensive way, provided the most comfortable environment, and presented the overall highest satisfaction with statistically significant difference (p value=0.001). LBL questions scored the highest point biserial and discrimination index. The percentage of correct answers and difficulty level was highest for TBL. Students preferred LBL over the other learning methods. Final exam psychometrics showed favorable results for LBL and TBL. Students could potentially benefit from combining both techniques. However, more research is needed to assess the effectiveness of various teaching methods on the short- and long-term learning outcomes.

A study of role of flexible dentures in prosthodontics, partial edentulism, smile and esthetics

Replacing missing teeth is vital and mandatory for various daily functions of mouth. Conventional acrylic dentures have been used but now flexible dentures are the latest trends. This study is done to evaluate knowledge and awareness of flexible dentures in dental professionals. A questionnaire method was used to evaluate dental professionals' knowledge and awareness of flexible dentures in patients. Few dentists showed positive response and major were not aware of it. Few knew of advantages, disadvantages, uses and materials. More research should be done in this field so as to utilize this recent option at the maximum for benefit of patients clinically.

Rubber Dam Isolation Survey among Dental Students in Al-Qassim University and How to Promote its Usage.

Rubber dam isolation is crucial in dentistry, but its use varies among dental students. There is a need to assess their awareness, attitudes, and practices and find ways to promote its usage. To evaluate dental students' knowledge and practices regarding rubber dam isolation and identify barriers to its use. The study employed a cross-sectional design to assess dental students' knowledge and practices regarding rubber dam isolation. Data were collected from dental students at Al-Qassim University during the period from January to March 2023. A convenience sampling method was used, involving students from the third, fourth, and fifth academic years, with a total of 62 questionnaires distributed. A pre-tested questionnaire consisting of 11 closed-ended questions was used to collect data, and the analysis was performed using SPSS version 21, with results presented through descriptive statistics. Only 21% always used rubber dam for amalgam restorations, while 53.2% used it for composite restorations. Over 70% believed their education on rubber dam was adequate. The main barriers were difficulty (40.3%) and time constraints (53.2%). About 68% felt rubber dam should be mandatory for composite treatments. Dental students need more education and training to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice concerning rubber dam isolation. Implementing it can enhance the quality of dental care.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of Dentists at Military Hospitals Regarding Child Abuse and Neglect: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of Dentists at Military Hospitals Regarding Child Abuse and Neglect: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Birjand Regarding the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation and Radiation Protection Methods

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Birjand Regarding the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation and Radiation Protection Methods

Awareness on antibiotic prescription for endodontic cases among Dentists and Endodontists in Saudi Arabia

The knowledge of Dentists and Endodontists in Saudi Arabia regarding antibiotic prescriptions during and after endodontic treatment is of interest. A self-designed questionnaire survey was utilized to assess the knowledge of dentists across various cities in Saudi Arabia concerning antibiotic usage guidelines for endodontic purposes. A total of 391 participants were included in the study, and the questionnaire was distributed through social platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, and email. Results revealed that over 80% of participants acknowledged the need for antibiotics in cases of acute apical abscess with cellulitis, with amoxicillin being the most recommended antibiotic by dentists. Interestingly, there was no statistically significant difference in knowledge based on experience or graduation group. In conclusion, while participants demonstrated adequate knowledge about antibiotic prescriptions in endodontic cases, continued awareness of updated guidelines, including the WHO's Essential Medicines List (EML), guidelines by the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) and American Association Endodontists (AAE) is essential for optimal clinical practice.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TOTAL EDENTULOUS PROSTHETIC FIELD MORPHOLOGY IN THE DESIGN OF CONVENTIONAL COMPLETE DENTURES

The complete denture has the role of reproducing the missing dental and maxillary structures: teeth, gums and facial contours, ensuring a harmonious integration with the patient’s remaining features. The main objective of this study aims to evaluate the knowledge of dental students and dentists regarding complete denture. Material and method. The evaluation of the knowledge among students and dentists regarding the prosthetics of the complete edentulism was carried out by the questionnaire method. The study was attended by students of the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova and dentists, from the urban environment. Results. Regarding the sources of information, 26% of the participants mentioned that the main source of information was represented by specialized books, 86% of the participants believed that the patient’s general state of health influences the morphology of the total edentulous prosthetic field. 74 of the participants stated that the installation of the “suction cup” phenomenon between the mucosal face of the prosthesis and the fully edentulous prosthetic field is the main factor for achieving the suction of the complete denture. 44% of the respondents considered that the main factor contributing to the stability of a complete denture is the anatomical retentiveness Conclusions. The complete denture plays an essential role in the restoration of the dento-maxillary system by ensuring the morphological and functional rehabilitation of totally edentulous arches.

Assessing dental student knowledge on cannabis and demonstrating the need for cannabis education.

The American Dental Association advocates for dentists' education on therapeutic and legal issues related to medical cannabis. It is important to understand current knowledge of cannabis and cannabinoids and to have a practical knowledge assessment instrument. This exploratory study is the first of its kind to assess dental students' knowledge of cannabis and aims to determine if there is a need for more instruction regarding cannabis in a dental school's curriculum. Predoctoral dental students at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine were recruited to participate. A validated, anonymous 22-item online survey was adapted and administered to students in all 4 years of the dental program. There was a total of 56 knowledge points. The average knowledge score was 21.6 points (SD=5.2, range: 7-34), corresponding to 38.5% (SD=9.2) of the answers correct. There were no overall differences in knowledge by gender, years in dental school, or by any reported source of formal education on cannabis. Those who reported doing their own research had higher knowledge scores. Most participants knew that there is an endogenous cannabinoid system (72.3%) and that Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is responsible for the "high" experienced with cannabis (76.6%). Most participants reported that they did not know the effective doses of THC (58.2%) and Cannabidiol (CBD) (66.7%); few provided an answer for THC (34%) or CBD (17%) in the acceptable range of 2-10mg. Dental students did not have adequate knowledge on cannabis and cannabinoids. Given the rapid expansion of cannabis legalization, additional efforts are needed to integrate cannabis topics into coursework and learning experiences.

Knowledge and Preparedness of Dentists in Response to Bioterrorism.

In the current climate of heightened terrorist activity, the deliberate release or threat of biological agents like viruses, bacteria, fungi, or their toxins to induce sickness or death among civilians has become a genuine possibility. The most crucial action during a bioterrorist strike is early warning. The possibility of such an occurrence in dental setting is underestimated. Seventy five graduate students participated in the research. In a survey on zoonotic diseases, participants were asked whether they were familiar with the transmission from person to person, if the diseases caused significant morbidity and mortality, whether they were simple to produce and disseminate, and whether they posed a high risk of infection. Graph Prism was used to examine the data. A single proportion test was used to determine the "Aware Not Aware" group. The first 10 questions assessed dentists objective knowledge of bioterrorism. The importance of the last six questions was determined by their analysis of dentists' preparedness and desire to respond to a bioterrorism associated occurrence via perceived knowledge. Given the real danger they may face, dentists needed to be vigilant regarding the prevention, detection, and treatment of zoonotic illnesses transmitted in their offices or as a vector while being commended for their courage in the face of adversity.

Evaluating of Knowledge of Dentists in Relation to Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Xerostomia in Yazd City in 2022-2023

Introduction: Saliva has a key role in protecting the oral environment and functions such as chewing, swallowing, lack of saliva can cause many problems and suffering for patients and affect people's quality of life. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the level of awareness of dentists in Yazd City regarding the causes and symptoms and how to treat dry mouth in 2022-2023.&#x0D; Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 125 dentists of Yazd City were selected by convenience sampling method. A valid and reliable questionnaire was designed. The data were analyzed using t-test and ANOVA statistical tests and SPSS V.16.&#x0D; Results: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 125 dentists in Yazd City; they were selected by convenience sampling method, 65 of them were male (51.2%) and 60 were female (48.8%). The average of age, work experience and knowledge score of the examined dentists were 33.46±7.27, 6.79±6.57 and 15.24±2.90, respectively. There was no statistically significant relationship between knowledge score and gender and work experience and participate in retraining with P = 0.323, P = 0.120 and P = 0.167, respectively. But there was a statistically significant relationship between the knowledge score and age and university of study with P = 0.030 and P = 0.034. People with older age and educated in type 1 university had more knowledge about dry mouth.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results showed that the dentists of Yazd City had average knowledge about the causes, symptoms and how to treat xerostomia. And it is necessary to cooperate in holding refresher courses in this field.