Knowledge Of General Dental Practitioners Research Articles

Endodontic Treatment During Pregnancy: Knowledge of General Dental Practitioners and Interns in Zliten, Libya

This study was conducted to assess the knowledge of dental interns and general dentists about providing endodontic treatment to pregnant patients in Zliten-Libya. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered, closed ended questionnaire which was circulated among 127 dental interns and general dentists in Zliten-Libya. The questionnaire included demographical items and questions relative to the participant's knowledge regarding the endodontic treatment during pregnancy. The analysis of data was carried out using SPSS 26. 84% of survey participants indicated the second trimester as the safest period for endodontic treatment. 95% of respondents considered the need for a specific chair position among which 58% identified the correct one. 72% and 65% of respondents indicated the safety of local anaesthetics with vasoconstrictors and use of aspiration technique, respectively. 22% of respondents identified the toxicity of bupivacaine. 64% of respondents considered the safety of either root canal irrigants or intra-canal medicaments. The obturation materials were considered safe by 74% of respondents. 49% of respondents indicated the safety of radiographic examination among which 67% preferred RVG technique. 58% of respondents preferred acetaminophen for pain control. Dental interns and general dentists in Zliten exhibited a sufficient knowledge regarding the safety of endodontic treatment during pregnancy and required to improve their knowledge particularly regarding the safety of some local anaesthetics and radiographic examination during endodontic treatment.

KNOWLEDGE OF GENERAL DENTAL PRACTITIONERS, POSTGRADUATE RESIDENTS, AND SPECIALISTS FROM VARIOUS DENTAL SPECIALTIES TOWARDS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY IN PAKISTAN

Objective: To find out the Knowledge of general dental practitioners and Specialists from various dental specialties towards pediatric dental care in Pakistan.Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional, questionnaire study was conducted. The pre-validated questionnaire was distributed among different dentists in Pakistan and responses were evaluated using SPSS 25.Results:Out of the 372 participants, there were 207 general dentists, 83 operative dentists, 17 prosthodontists, 21 orthodontists and 44 oral surgeons. A greater proportion of operative dentists knew about the recommended medicament for pulpotomy (n = 30, 36.1%; p = 0.022) and the material of choice for restoring multi-surface lesions (n = 29, 34.1%; p < 0.001), as compared to other dentists. However, the number is still low. A greater proportion of orthodontists/prosthodontists and oral surgeons knew about the correct pain control method for mandibular endodontics (n = 46, 56.1%; p = 0.007). A total of 331 (89.0%) dentists did not know the material of choice for restoring one surface lesions.Conclusion: A very low frequency of dentists had knowledge about the different basic practices of pediatric dentistry. The knowledge of dentists was highly lacking. Pediatric dentistry education at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels should be incorporated.

Awareness and Knowledge of General Dental Practitioners in Central India Towards Management of Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder: A Questionnaire-based Survey

Introduction: Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) accounts for common Orofacial Pain (OFP) arising from musculoskeletal origins, affecting almost 80% of the overall population. The multifactorial nature of the disease makes it difficult to diagnose and treat and is challenging to a considerable number of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs). They’re increasingly approached by patients for advice on TMD, but little is understood about how this disorder is addressed with in primary health care. Aim: To assess the awareness and knowledge regarding management of TMDs among GDPs in Central India. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Central India, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India from 20th June 2020 to 12th December 2020, including 200 general dental practitioners, who were registered under the Dental Council of India. A questionnaire consisting of 17 questions with reference to TMDs was designed and the questionnaire was circulated through a web designed program. The responses were collected, and data were analysed descriptively using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) statistics for windows version 24.0. Results: The mean age of the participants in the study was 24.80±1.63 years. Predominantly, participants were 164 females (82%). Among all the participants, about 181 (90.50%) of GDP’s were practicing Dentistry. The study findings suggest that the overall general practicing dentists encounter TMD cases and 162 (81%) of GDP’s treat patient at their clinic. A 76% of GDPs acknowledged the causative factor for TMD to be multifactorial and physical examination (88.50%) as the diagnostic tool. Most of the general practitioners around 126 (63%) preferred referring the patient to the specialist, maxillofacial surgeon. Among the practitioners who were confident in treating TMD, occlusal splint was the treatment of choice for 198 (96%) of the GDPs. Conclusion: Many GDPs lack standard protocol knowledge, felt insecure in TMD diagnosis, therapy decisions and treatment. There is a requirement for better quality evidence on which TMD diagnosis and treatment, including the event of a valid, reproducible patient-centered outcome measure to enable dental practitioners to feel confident in managing TMD. It is essential to train GDPs to identify individuals with TMDs through professional courses and training. It would be highly beneficial to educate the undergraduates regarding the diagnosis of TMDs in their curriculum.

Knowledge of General Dental Practitioners and Specialists about Emergency Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries in Qassim, Saudi Arabia.

Context. Studies about knowledge of emergency management of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) which affect children by general dental practitioners (GDPs) and specialists in Saudi Arabia are lacking. Aim The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge level of GDPs and specialists about TDI emergency management and its relation with demographic variables in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods. A random sample of 239 GDPs and specialists was given a two-part questionnaire; the first part included demographic questions and the second part included questions related to knowledge of emergency management of luxation (intrusion and extrusion), complicated crown fracture, and avulsion injuries. Data was statistically analyzed using chi-square and ordinal logistic regression tests. The significance was set at P < 0.05. Results The mean knowledge score was 5.57 for GDPs and 6.69 for specialists (out of 12). A significant difference was observed between both groups in the management of avulsion injury. Three factors significantly improved the dentists' knowledge: gender (female), practice type (specialist), and previous experience of encountered TDIs (P < 0.05. Conclusions GDPs and specialists in Qassim region had moderate knowledge of emergency management of TDIs. Specialists were significantly more knowledgeable than GDPs in the management of avulsion injury when compared to the rest of the injuries.

Knowledge and Practice of General Dental Practitioners Concerning Dental Trauma Management in Children in Ahvaz, Iran

Background and Objectives: Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are unpleasant experiences for children and they necessitate to be treated as soon as possible. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of general dental practitioners (GDPs) regarding emergency management of TDIs in Ahvaz, Iran.Subjects and Methods: In this study, a two-part questionnaire was responded by 100 GDPs. The first section included questions on demographic information and the second section was composed of questions on different dental Injuries. One score was assigned to each correct answer; the total score of 10 to 30 was considered as low knowledge and practice, while scores 30-50, 50-70 and above 70 were considered as moderate, good, and high levels of knowledge and practice, respectively. The data were analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation, t-test and regression.Results: With regards to the level of GDP’s knowledge, the mean score was 59.2%. A total of 100 (51%) dentists showed a good level of knowledge. A significant association was found between knowledge and practice of GDPs in their practice encountering and treating TDI (P=0.001).Conclusion: The overall knowledge of GDPs about management of TDI in the selected community was good.

Dentists\u2019 perception, knowledge, and clinical management of molar-incisor-hypomineralisation in Kuwait: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMolar-incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) is considered as a global dental problem. There is little knowledge of general dental practitioners (GDPs) and dental specialists (DSs) about this condition in different parts of the world, particularly in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Hence, this study has been carried out to assess the knowledge of GDPS and DSs in Kuwait about MIH condition, its clinical presentation and management. Findings would help national school oral health program (SOHP) to promote good oral healthcare.MethodsA structured questionnaire was distributed to 310 attendees of the 18th Kuwait Dental Association Scientific Conference, Kuwait. Data concerning demographic variables, prevalence, diagnosis, severity, training demands and clinical management of MIH were collected.ResultsA response rate of 71.3% (221/310) was reported. 94% of respondents noticed MIH in their practice. Yellow/brown demarcation has been observed as a common clinical presentation (> 50%). Almost 10–20% of MIH prevalence has been reported by the participants. Resin composite was the dental material often used in treating MIH teeth (~ 65%), and fewer than half would use it for treating moderately affected molars. Most respondents would use preformed metal crowns for severe MIH (63%). Dental journals were the information source for DSs; whereas, the internet was the information source for GDPs. Child’s behaviour was the main reported barrier for treatment of MIH affected children. Many GDPs felt unconfident when diagnosing MIH compared to dental specialists. Respondents supported the need to investigate MIH prevalence and to receive a clinical training.ConclusionsMolar incisor hypomineralisation is a recognised dental condition by practitioners in Kuwait. Yellow/brown demarcated opacities were the most reported clinical presentation, and the composite resin was the most preferred dental material for restoring MIH teeth. Most GDPs and dental specialists would use preformed metal crowns for severely affected molars. GDPs reported low levels of confidence in MIH diagnosis which necessitates conducting continuing education courses to provide high- quality dental care for children with MIH.

Knowledge on temporomandibular disorders pathophysiology among dental practitioners in Jakarta, Indonesia

Background: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a common term used to describe the problems related to masticatory muscles, joints, and supporting tissues. TMD commonly causes orofacial pain and has been the subject of considerable research in the field of dentistry. The treatment chosen for patients who have TMD is largely determined by the knowledge of general dental practitioners. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to assess the understanding of TMD pathophysiology by such practitioners. Methods: Questionnaires were distributed randomly to general dental practitioners in private offices and hospitals in the area of Jakarta, Indonesia. The answers on the returned questionnaires were compared to those of TMD experts. Results: Of the 117 questionnaires distributed to general dentists, 105 were returned (89.7% response rate). The results showed an overall level of knowledge of TMD pathophysiology of 25%. Conclusion: The majority of general dental practitioners in Jakarta lack knowledge of TMD pathophysiology

Evaluation of the Knowledge of General Dental Practitioners in Tabriz about the Implant Treatment Planning

Introduction: Based on available evidence, demand for dental implants is on the rise in Iran similar to that in other countries. Therefore, it seems it is necessary to promote the knowledge and performance of dentists in this respect. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge of general dental practitioners in Iran about the implant treatment planning. Materials and methods: In the present cross-sectional survey, 272 general dental practitioners in Tabriz were evaluated. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity and reliability had been confirmed. Data were analyzed with descriptive and analytical statistical methods using SPSS 21. Results: The results showed a mean knowledge score of 19.4 in relation to dental implant treatment planning among general dental practitioners in Tabriz; 1.1% of dentists had low knowledge level, 79% had moderate knowledge level and 19.9% had good knowledge level. Analysis of data showed a significant relationship between the dentists’ knowledge level and job experience, gender and a history of participation in continuous education programs. Conclusion: On the whole, the general dental practitioners in Tabriz had a moderate level of knowledge about dental implant treatment planning. Keywords: Implant; Knowledge; Dentists; Tabriz

General Dental Practitioners' Knowledge about the Emergency Management of Dental Trauma.

The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to assess the general dental practitioners (GDPs)'s knowledge regarding the emergency management of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in Isfahan, Iran. In this study a two-part questionnaire consisting of 14 questions was distributed among 241 GDPs. Part 1 included seven questions focusing on personal and professional information and part 2 asked questions about seven given cases of dental traumas. One score was dedicated to each correct answer; the total score of 0 to 4 was considered as poor knowledge, while scores 5-8, 9-11 and 12-14 were assigned as moderate, good and excellent knowledge, respectively. The data were analyzed using the Student's t-test and one-way ANOVA. Spearman's and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used to determine the associations between the emergency treatment knowledge and dentists' professional information. With regards to the level of GDP's knowledge, the mean score was 7.61±2.68 suggesting a moderate score; a total of 177 (73.2%) of the dentists showed a moderate level of knowledge. A significant association was found between the frequency of dental trauma cases that were encountered and treated by GDPs in their daily practice (P=0.004, r=0.2). The overall knowledge of GDPs about the emergency management of TDI in the selected community was moderate.

Antibiotic prescription for endodontic treatment: general dentist knowledge + practice in shiraz.

Diseases of the dental pulp and periapical tissues are chiefly caused by microorganisms. Antibiotics are used in some endodontic cases; however, successful cases can predominantly be achieved by mechanical and chemical cleaning of the canal or surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) in Shiraz in respect to antibiotic prescriptions during and after endodontic treatment. A one-page questionnaire was sent to 200 active general dentists. Of the 120 surveys returned, 93 were accepted. The data were analyzed using t-test, Chi-square, ANOVA and Fisher's Exact Test. Only 29% of dentists had full knowledge (correct answers to all questions) of antibiotic prescription protocols in pulpal and periapical disease. Amoxicillin 500 mg capsule was the drug of choice of dentists. Total of 42% of GDPs had full knowledge of antibiotic prescription protocols for persistent or systemic infections cases. GDPs more recently qualified had slightly greater knowledge compared to GDPs with experience; however, this difference was not significant. Also, there was no significant difference between genders. General practitioners' knowledge about antibiotics seems inadequate and further education is recommended to update the practitioners.

General dental practitioner views on providing alcohol related health advice; an exploratory study

To identify salient beliefs of general dental practitioners (GDPs) regarding their role in the identification of alcohol misuse and the provision of an alcohol related health message in the primary dental care setting. A convenience sample of 12 GDPs practising in the North Highland region of Scotland underwent semi-structured interview. An inductive approach was used with subsequent basic thematic content analysis performed on the transcripts. GDPs universally agreed that alcohol consumption plays a role in both oral health and general health but this did not translate into effective communication about alcohol during dental consultation. Current knowledge of recommended safe alcohol consumption guidelines was poor - evidence of potential GDP training requirements. The primary barriers related to disruption of the clinician-patient relationship, embarrassment or the perceived irrelevance to the clinical situation. GDPs expressed low confidence in approaching alcohol related problems. GDPs felt that alcohol based discussions in primary care would not be relevant and would inevitably lead to disruption of the patient-clinician relationship. Further research is necessary to more fully understand the attitudes, behaviour and knowledge of GDPs regarding the provision of alcohol related health advice. The results of this study have informed the design of a paper postal survey for wider distribution.

Summary of: General dental practitioner views on providing alcohol related health advice; an exploratory study

Objective To identify salient beliefs of general dental practitioners (GDPs) regarding their role in the identification of alcohol misuse and the provision of an alcohol related health message in the primary dental care setting. Method A convenience sample of 12 GDPs practising in the North Highland region of Scotland underwent semi-structured interview. An inductive approach was used with subsequent basic thematic content analysis performed on the transcripts. Results GDPs universally agreed that alcohol consumption plays a role in both oral health and general health but this did not translate into effective communication about alcohol during dental consultation. Current knowledge of recommended safe alcohol consumption guidelines was poor - evidence of potential GDP training requirements. The primary barriers related to disruption of the clinician-patient relationship, embarrassment or the perceived irrelevance to the clinical situation. GDPs expressed low confidence in approaching alcohol related problems. Conclusions GDPs felt that alcohol based discussions in primary care would not be relevant and would inevitably lead to disruption of the patient-clinician relationship. Further research is necessary to more fully understand the attitudes, behaviour and knowledge of GDPs regarding the provision of alcohol related health advice. The results of this study have informed the design of a paper postal survey for wider distribution.

Endocarditis Prophylaxis in Cardiac Patients: Knowledge among General Dental Practitioners in Tabriz.

Background and aims Dental procedures injuring oral tissues may induce bacterial release to blood stream that can cause infective endocarditis in susceptible patients. The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of general dental practitioners (GDPs) in Tabriz, Northwest of Iran, regarding endocarditis prophylaxis in cardiac pa-tients receiving dental treatments. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical study that included 150 GDPs. All practitioners were given a self-administered questionnaire which consisted of three parts assessing their knowledge of cardiac diseases requiring prophylaxis, dental procedures requiring prophylaxis, and antibiotic regimen for endocarditis prophylaxis. Statistical analysis of data was carried out using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA and chi-square test. Results The level of knowledge among GDPs in three areas of cardiac diseases requiring prophylax-is, dental procedures requiring prophylaxis, and antibiotic regimen for endocarditis prophylaxis were 63.7%, 66.8% and 47.7%, respectively. Their overall level of knowledge regarding endocarditis prophylaxis was 59%. Association of the level of knowledge with age and practice period was statis-tically significant (P < 0.05). However, the level of knowledge was not significantly associated with gender or university of graduation in either of three areas evaluated (P > 0.05). Conclusion According to our results, the knowledge of endocarditis prophylaxis among GDPs in Tabriz was in a moderate level. Regarding the importance of endocarditis prophylaxis in sus-ceptible patients, it should be more emphasized in the curriculum of dental schools and continuing dental education programs.

Antibiotic prescribing knowledge of National Health Service general dental practitioners in England and Scotland.

The inappropriate use of antibiotics has contributed to the worldwide problem of antimicrobial resistance. Information on the knowledge, understanding and training of dental practitioners in the use of antibiotics in clinical practice is scarce. This study assessed the level of knowledge of general dental practitioners and the need for educational initiatives. An anonymous postal questionnaire was sent to National Health Service dental practitioners working in 10 Health Authorities in England (1544) and four Health Boards in Scotland (672). Each correct answer to the questionnaire was given a score of one mark; there were 84 questions. The scores for each section of the questionnaire were compared. Responses were received from 1338 (60.4%) of practitioners, of whom 22.1% had attended postgraduate courses in the previous 2 years on antibiotic prescribing. Practitioners who had attended courses had a significantly greater knowledge of antibiotic use (P < 0.05) than those who had not. There was no significant difference in knowledge between all age groups under 60 years of age. There were significant differences in knowledge between dentists practising in English Health Authorities and Scottish Health Boards (P < 0.01). Knowledge was good for clinical signs that are indicators for prescribing antibiotics and for a number of non-clinical factors, e.g. patient expectation. Knowledge of therapeutic prescribing for commonly presenting clinical conditions and prophylactic prescribing for medically compromised patients, however, was generally poor. This study has shown that an urgent review of dental undergraduate and postgraduate education in antibiotic prescribing is required. Provision of prescribing guidelines may improve knowledge and encourage the appropriate use of antibiotics in clinical dental practice.