Provision of Pediatric Dental Services by Pediatric Dentists Versus General Dentists: Secondary Dental Analysis of Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to determine whether visiting only a pediatric dentist (as opposed to visiting only a general dentist) was associated with the provision of preventive dental services for a U.S.-based pediatric population (those 18 years and younger). Methods: This study analyzed pooled Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data from 2018 and 2019 to compare the use of certain preventive dental services (i.e., examination, radiographs, prophylaxis, dental sealant, and fluoride treatment) among those who reported visiting a pediatric dentist versus those who visited a general dentist. Survey procedures were used in Stata 14.0 to perform multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: Controlling for demographic and insurance variables, children who visited only pediatric dentists had statistically significantly greater odds of receiving radiographs (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] equals 1.22; 95 percent confidence interval [95% CI] equals 1.01 to 1.48; P=0.04), fluoride treatment (AOR equals 1.57; 95% CI equals 1.30 to 1.90; P≤0.001), and sealants (AOR equals 1.63; 95% CI equals 1.24 to 2.16; P=0.001) compared to children who visited only general dentists. There was no statistically significant difference in the provision of periodic examinations and prophylaxis services. Conclusion: Based on the nationally representative data evaluated, pediatric dentists are more likely to provide more optimal preventive services than general dentists (i.e., radiographs, fluoride treatments, and sealants) to children in the United States.

Management of orthodontically induced white spot lesions: A survey of the orthodontic practitioners of Pakistan.

Objective: To assess the level of awareness among orthodontic practitioners about the diagnosis and management of orthodontically induced white spot lesions. METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted from August 28, 2022, to March 3, 2023, at Bakhtawar Amin Medical and Dental College, Multan, and comprised orthodontic specialists and postgraduate residents. Data was collected using a 14-item questionnaire regarding diagnosis and management of orthodontically induced white spot lesions. The questionnaire was disseminated online, and the responses were compared between the groups. Data was analysed using SPSS 24. RESULTS: Of the 278 subjects, 205(73.7%) were residents; 156(75%) females and 49(24%) males with mean professional experience of 4.24±4.08 years. There were 73(26.3%) specialists; 44(60.3%) females and 29(39.7%) males with mean professional experience 9.07±4.85 years. There were 48(66%) specialists and 131(64%) residents who thought the most commonly affected teeth with WSL were maxillary central incisors, while 30(41%) specialists and 38(33%) residents said the least commonly affected tooth was maxillary canine. Among the specialists, 29(38%) considered halting treatment and regular follow-up as the best approach for managing white spot lesions detected during orthodontic treatment, while 76(37%) residents preferred to use fluorides and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate. There were significant differences between the specialists and residents for the items related to the incidence of white spot lesions, timing for additional precautions and measures for detection, management during active treatment and modalities of prevention (p<0.05). Conclusion: Despite being fairly common in orthodontic patients, the awareness regarding white spot lesions and related management protocols was found to be dubious in orthodontic practitioners, depicting lack of a standardised protocol.

Awareness and practice of Revised Code of Dental Ethics and Consumer Protection Act among dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh: A cross sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Given the imperative for dental practitioners to be familiar with the existing ethical principles and laws governing their practice, this study aimed to evaluate awareness and practice of the dentists (code of ethics) regulations 2014 and consumer protection act 2019 among dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh state, India. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among 384 dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh state, India. A questionnaire consisting of 25 items was used to assess awareness and practice of the dentists (code of ethics) regulations and consumer protection act. The data collected were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. RESULTS: Only 53(13.8%) dental practitioners in the study were aware that the dentists (code of ethics) regulations had been revised in 2014. About 190 (49.5%) practitioners were aware of the precise period for mandatory preservation of patient records. Most dental practitioners (278, 72.4%) accepted commissions in the form of gifts or cash from laboratories, radiologists, or pharmacists and 306 (79.7%) dental practitioners used unregistered dental lab technicians as employees in their practice. Furthermore, 297 (77.3%) practitioners were found to provide or sell drugs to patients in their clinic/office. The new regulations under consumer protection act 2019 were unknown to 194 (50.5%) dental practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: The present study indicates that the awareness of dental practitioners towards the dentists (code of ethics) regulations 2014 and consumer protection act 2019 is inadequate. It highlights the need for training programmes and curriculum changes with a focus on ethical and legal issues in clinical dental practice.

Dentists' perspectives, practices, and factors associated with informed consent process for fixed prosthodontic treatment: a cross-sectional study of kampala metropolitan area, Uganda.

BACKGROUND: Dentists have a legal and ethical obligation to obtain informed consent from patients before carrying out treatment. In Uganda, the process of obtaining informed consent in dentistry is not well documented. The aim of the present study was to determine dentists' perspectives and practices regarding informed consent to fixed prosthodontic treatment (FPT) in Kampala Metropolitan, Uganda. METHODS: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 153 dentists from July to September 2023. Data were collected using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire that included both closed- and open-ended questions. The questionnaire included items on participants' sociodemographic information, perspectives, and practices about informed consent for FPT. Perspectives were rated using ten items on a five-point Likert scale. The minimum possible total score was 10, and the maximum possible score was 50. Descriptive statistics and Poisson regression were used to summarize and analyze the quantitative data, and the significance level was set at p < 0.05. Open-ended items were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS: The majority (83.9%) of the participants were general dentists with working experience ranging from 1 to 38 years and a median of 8 years. The majority were familiar with the concept of informed consent and had positive perspectives regarding its use for FPT. The mean score for perspectives was 39.27 (SD, 5.42). However, there were variations in the practices of the dentists. More than three-quarters (87.6%) reported that they always obtained the patient's informed consent before FPT. Less than a third (29.4%) obtained written consent for FPT. About half of the dentists provided information regarding the procedure, benefits, and risks of treatment during the consent process. Bivariate analysis showed that the use of written consent for FPT was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with having a work experience of more than 10 years and having had training involving informed consent after undergraduate studies. CONCLUSION: The present study provides baseline data regarding perspectives and practices regarding informed consent for FPT among dentists in Uganda. It is recommended that regular training courses be developed to highlight the importance of improved informed consent practices for patient protection and to instruct dentists about obtaining valid informed consent. There is a need for future research to streamline guidelines for the informed consent process in dental care in Uganda.

An Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Accelerated Orthodontics amongst Orthodontists.

BACKGROUND: Accelerated orthodontic teeth movement are procedures carried out to increase the rate of tooth movement thereby reducing treatment time. There are numerous techniques currently available to accelerate orthodontic treatment time, but evidence is still needed to determine the degree to which orthodontists accept and practice accelerated orthodontics. The present study is aimed at assessing the knowledge of Orthodontists on the practice of accelerated orthodontics; as well as their willingness to adopt it as a treatment option for their patients. METHODOLOGY: Ethical approval was obtained before the commencement of the study. The study population comprised all orthodontists practicing in Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered physically to the orthodontists at their annual general meeting. E-mails were further used to distribute the questionnaire to the orthodontists who were absent from the annual meeting. The questionnaire obtained information on respondents' biodata, knowledge, attitude, and practice of accelerated orthodontic treatment procedures.Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS software version 27. The level of significance was 0.05 for all statistical analysis. RESULTS: The study participants comprised 60 respondents, with a mean age of 34.18 years and a male-to-female ratio of 1.3:1. A Majority of them were satisfied with treatment time/duration (61.7%), they had a good knowledge of accelerated orthodontics (83.3%) with piezocision (75%) and micro-osteoperforation (63.3%) being the most popular. All orthodontists were interested in accelerated orthodontics, if it offered up to 30% reduction in treatment time. Major limitations to the practice included unavailability of technique materials (50%), insufficient knowledge (41.7%) and cost (35%). CONCLUSION: Most orthodontists did not routinely practice accelerated orthodontics despite adequate knowledge. They were willing to offer accelerated orthodontic treatment (AOT) if patients were willing to pay an additional fee. The less invasive methods were more accepted.

CONTEXTE: Les mouvements dentaires orthodontiques accélérés sont des procédures réalisées pour augmenter la vitesse de déplacement des dents, réduisant ainsi le temps de traitement. Il existe de nombreuses techniques actuellement disponibles pour accélérer le temps de traitement orthodontique, mais des preuves sont encore nécessaires pour déterminer dans quelle mesure les orthodontistes acceptent et pratiquent l'orthodontie accélérée. La présente étude vise à évaluer les connaissances des orthodontistes sur la pratique de l'orthodontie accélérée, ainsi que leur volonté de l'adopter comme option de traitement pour leurs patients. MÉTHODOLOGIE: L'approbation éthique a été obtenue avant le début de l'étude. La population étudiée comprenait tous les orthodontistes exerçant au Nigeria. Des questionnaires ont été administrés physiquement aux orthodontistes lors de leur assemblée générale annuelle. Des courriels ont ensuite été utilisés pour distribuer le questionnaire aux orthodontistes absents de l'assemblée annuelle. Le questionnaire a recueilli des informations sur les données biographiques des répondants, ainsi que sur leurs connaissances, attitudes et pratiques en matière de traitement orthodontique accéléré. L'analyse statistique a été réalisée à l'aide du logiciel IBM SPSS version 27. Le niveau de signification était de 0,05 pour toutes les analyses statistiques. RÉSULTATS: Les participants à l'étude étaient au nombre de 60, avec un âge moyen de 34,18 ans et un ratio hommes-femmes de 1,3:1. La majorité d'entre eux étaient satisfaits du temps/durée du traitement (61,7 %), ils avaient de bonnes connaissances en orthodontie accélérée (83,3 %) avec la piezocision (75 %) et la micro-ostéoperforation (63,3 %) étant les plus populaires. Tous les orthodontistes étaient intéressés par l'orthodontie accélérée, si elle offrait une réduction allant jusqu'à 30 % du temps de traitement. Les principales limitations à la pratique comprenaient l'indisponibilité des matériaux de technique (50 %), le manque de connaissances (41,7 %) et le coût (35 %). CONCLUSION: La plupart des orthodontistes ne pratiquaient pas systématiquement l'orthodontie accélérée malgré des connaissances adéquates. Ils étaient prêts à proposer un traitement orthodontique accéléré (TOA) si les patients étaient prêts à payer des frais supplémentaires. Les méthodes moins invasives étaient plus acceptées. MOTS-CLÉS: Orthodontie accélérée, orthodontiste, temps de traitement, piezocision.

A quantitative and qualitative investigation into the management of carious primary molars by foundation dentists in primary care in the South East of England.

Introduction Dental caries is the most common reason for hospital admission of children aged 5-9 in the UK. Better management of caries in primary molars would reduce the number of children requiring treatment in hospitals; however, little research has been done into why primary care clinicians do not use an evidence-based approach to caries management for deciduous molars.Aims The aim of this paper is to identify the rationale behind caries management techniques used in primary care, as well as the choice of materials and long-term success of restorations placed.Materials and methods Use of a retrospective audit and a focus group with primary care clinicians to provide an insight into the management of carious primary molars and the barriers to achieving gold standard care.Results Glass ionomer cements (GICs) were the restoration of choice in primary care. Lack of time, equipment availability and clinician inexperience were cited as to why Hall crowns were not commonly placed.Conclusions The barriers to gold standard management of carious primary molars in practice are wide-ranging but tend to focus on the limitations of NHS care under the units of dental activity system. Lack of time and cost of materials encouraged clinicians to adopt a 'quick fix' approach in GIC.

Silver Diammine Fluoride Usage in General Dentistry Offices in Louisiana.

Purpose: To evaluate the current knowledge and usage of silver diammine fluoride (SDF) by general dentists in Louisiana and to identify primary barriers to the imple- mentation of SDF. Methods: A 16-item survey was emailed to 1719 Louisiana Dental Association members to identify factors influencing general dentists' usage of SDF. Results: Eighty-two surveys were completed with a response rate of 4.8 percent, with 69 identified as general dentists. Over half of the respondents were male (53.6%) and their practice experience ranged from less than one year to 48 years. The majority were solo owners (43.5%) while 7.3 percent had jobs in the corporate setting. Most agreed/strongly agreed that their knowledge of SDF was from either dental journals or online resources, while fewer stated they were taught about SDF (25%) or used SDF (8%) in dental school. The majority knew the advantages and off-label usage of SDF. However, only 40 percent recognized that SDF was officially approved for tooth hypersensitivity only. The most reported perceived barrier to SDF implementation was not learning about SDF in dental school (36%). Conclusion: There is a lack of understanding of SDF usage among Louisiana general dentists. The main reason for not incorporating SDF into their practice is the lack of training in their dental education.

Survey of National Health Service (NHS) orthodontic practitioners in Wales, UK. Part 1: working patterns 2021-2022.

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the working patterns of the NHS orthodontic workforce in Wales and any possible future changes. DESIGN: Descriptive cross-sectional survey. PARTICIPANTS: NHS orthodontic practitioners in Wales. METHODS: An anonymised email distributed an electronic two-part survey of the Welsh NHS orthodontic workforce. The survey consisted of three sections: (1) demographic information; (2) respondents' working pattern (part 1); and (3) perceptions of professional satisfaction (part 2). RESULTS: Part 1 of the survey yielded a 70.5% response rate (n = 79); 65.8% of the respondents were women. Of the respondents, 45.6% (n = 36) worked full time (F/T), 39.2% (n = 31) worked less than F/T and 15.2% (n = 12) worked more than F/T. Of the male respondents, 81.5% (n = 22) worked 10 sessions or more compared to 50% (n = 26) of women. The respondents undertook 508.5 orthodontic clinical sessions per week within Wales; of these sessions, 87.6% (n = 445.5) delivered NHS orthodontic care. Of the respondents, 8.4% (n = 7) were planning to increase their orthodontic clinical time within the next 2 years, 24.1% (n = 19) were planning to decrease it and 20.3% (n = 16) were unsure. One-quarter of respondents indicated that they were planning to stop clinical orthodontic activity within the next 5 years, including 53.3% (n = 8) of DwSIs, 37% (n = 10) of primary care specialists and 13.3% (n = 2) of consultants. The pandemic was an influencing factor for 80% of these clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: Part 1 of the survey suggested that the majority of the orthodontic workforce was female, were working full time or more, and spent most sessions delivering NHS care. One-quarter of respondents were planning to cease undertaking orthodontic activity within the next 5 years.

Usage of temporary anchorage devices: A cross-cultural and cross-sectional survey of orthodontists in Australia and the UK.

INTRODUCTION: Detailed insight regarding the use of temporary anchorage devices (TAD) in Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) is lacking. The primary aim of the present cross-sectional survey was to investigate TAD usage among UK-based and Australian-based orthodontists. The secondary objectives were to compare TAD-related preferences and protocols between orthodontists in the two countries. METHODS: A pilot-tested electronic questionnaire was distributed to members of the British Orthodontic Society and the Australian Society of Orthodontists. Questions pertained to their demographic details, and current use of TADs including protocols, treatment objectives and factors influencing their use. RESULTS: A total of 192 responses were recorded (Australia: 122; UK: 70). One hundred and forty-two respondents (74.0%) reported using TADs as part of their orthodontic treatment, 77.0% in Australia (n=94) and 68.6% in the UK (n=48). Molar protraction was the most common procedure for which TADs were reportedly used (Australia: n=118; 87.2%, UK: n=36; 75.0%). "Loosening" was the most prevalent reported complication overall (n=124; 90.1%). "Confidence", "insufficient postgraduate education" and "availability of equipment" were the factors that most influenced the decision not to provide TADs. CONCLUSIONS: Most orthodontists in both countries provided TADs. TAD protocols of orthodontists in both countries were reported. Similarities and differences regarding TAD-related clinical practices and procedures, complications and factors influencing the use of TADs and reasons for not using TADs were explored. Information from the present study can provide baseline data for future related studies in each country and for comparison of TAD usage in other countries.

Conhecimento de acadêmicos de Odontologia acerca da avulsão dentária / Knowledge of dental students about tooth avulsion

Objetivo: verificar o conhecimento de acadêmicos de Odontologia de uma instituição de ensino superior da Paraíba acerca da avulsão dentária. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo transversal, no qual 64 acadêmicos responderam um formulário com perguntas objetivas relativas a dados sociodemográficos, período de formação do curso e conhecimento e condutas em casos de avulsão dentária. Foi realizada análise descritiva de frequência absoluta e relativa dos dados (SPSS, v. 20.0). Resultados: a maioria dos acadêmicos recebeu informações sobre avulsão dentária em aulas ministradas no curso (86%) e indicaria a irrigação com soro fisiológico seguida de reimplante quando da ocorrência do trauma há menos de uma hora (64,1%) e há mais de uma hora (43,8%). O tratamento endodôntico foi indicado, independentemente do tempo do dente fora do alvéolo, por 34,4% da amostra. A contenção rígida foi a mais indicada para o dente reimplantado (48,4%) e seu tempo mínimo de proservação radiográfica respondido pela maioria dos pesquisados foi de 6 meses (48,4%). Conclusões: apesar de a maioria dos acadêmicos ter recebido informações acerca da temática, o conhecimento foi considerado insuficiente em relação a condutas referentes ao reimplante dentário, indicação do tratamento endodôntico, tipo de contenção e tempo de proservação.

Objective: to verify the knowledge of dental students from a Higher Education Institution of Paraíba about dental avulsion. Methods: a cross-sectional study was carried out, in which 64 students answered a form with objective questions regarding sociodemographic data, course period, knowledge and conduct in cases of tooth avulsion. Descriptive analysis of absolute and relative frequency of data was performed (SPSS, v. 20.0). Results: most students received information about dental avulsion during the graduation classes (86%) and would indicate irrigation with saline solution followed by reimplantation when the trauma occurred less than one hour (64.1%) and more than one hour (43.8%). Endodontic treatment was indicated, regardless of the time the tooth was out of the dental socket, according 34.4% of the sample. Rigid retention was the most indicated for the reimplanted tooth (48.4%) and six months was the minimum radiographic follow-up time answered by most students (48.4%). Conclusions: although most students have received information about the topic, the knowledge was considered insufficient in relation to some aspects of the protocols recommended for emergency care for dental avulsion, with emphasis on behaviors related to dental reimplantation, indication of endodontic treatment, type of containment and follow-up.

Uso de óxido nitroso como sedação consciente por profissionais de odontologia no Rio Grande do Sul: um estudo transversal / Prevalence of nitrous oxide use as conscious sedation by dentistry professionals in Rio Grande do Sul: a cross-sectional study

Objetivo: Avaliar fatores associados, percepção e prevalência do uso de óxido nitroso por cirurgiões-dentistas do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Metodologia: Realizou-se um estudo transversal, de base eletrônica, com profissionais registrados no Rio Grande do Sul. A coleta de dados baseou-se no envio, por e-mails e campanhas no Instagram, de um questionário via plataforma Google Forms contendo 27 questões acerca do uso de óxido nitroso em atendimentos odontológicos, bem como o perfil e as percepções dos profissionais sobre a técnica. Resultados: Dos 220 participantes, apenas 12,3% utilizava o óxido nitroso em sua prática clínica, sendo as especialidades que mais utilizavam, cirurgia e odontopediatria. Dentre os que reportaram utilizar a técnica, 81,5% tinham mais de 29 anos (p<0,001) e possuíam curso de pós-graduação, sendo que destes, 55,6% realizou o curso de habilitação (p<0,01) e mais da metade (55,6%) relatou utilizar em pacientes adultos (p<0,001). O alto custo do equipamento, bem como a falta de interesse dos profissionais, foram as principais razões para o não uso da técnica. Conclusão: A técnica de sedação consciente com óxido nitroso é pouco usada pelos cirurgiões-dentistas no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. É possível que a ampliação do conhecimento acerca da indicação e aplicação do óxido nitroso, ainda durante a graduação, possa expandir o uso e contribuir para uma melhor qualidade no atendimento de pacientes com medo e ansiedade odontológicos. (AU)

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate associated factors, perception and prevalence of nitrous oxide use by dental surgeons in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Methodology: A cross-sectional, electronic-based study was carried out with professionals registered in Rio Grande do Sul. Data collection was based on sending, via emails and Instagram campaigns, a questionnaire via the Google Forms platform containing 27 questions about the use of nitrous oxide in dental care, as well as the profile and perceptions of professionals about the technique. Results: Of the 220 participants, only 12.3% used nitrous oxide in their clinical practice, the specialties they used most being surgery and pediatric dentistry. Among those who reported using the technique, 81.5% were over 29 years old (p<0.001) and had a postgraduate course, of which 55.6% completed the qualification course (p<0.01) and more than half (55.6%) reported using it in adult patients (p<0.001). The high cost of the equipment, as well as the lack of interest from professionals, were the main reasons for not using the technique. Conclusion: The conscious sedation technique with nitrous oxide is little used by dental surgeons in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. It is possible that expanding knowledge about the indication and application of nitrous oxide, even during graduation, can expand its use and contribute to a better quality of care for patients with dental fear and anxiety. (AU)

Oral Cancer Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Newly Graduated Dentists in Kuwait.

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer awareness among newly graduated dentists could have a substantial impact in the prevention and early detection of oral cancer. OBJECTIVE: This survey was undertaken to assess the knowledge, opinion, attitudes, and practices on oral cancer among newly graduated dentists in Kuwait. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, self-reported questionnaire was distributed to the newly graduated dentists. Of the 310 dentists who participated, 171 (55.2%) were males and 139 (44.8%) were females. The questionnaire included 23- questions on oral cancer knowledge, opinion, attitudes, and practices. RESULTS: The mean age of the dentists was 25.8 ± 2.4 years and their mean years of experience 1.5 ± 1.7 years. Overall, a great majority of dentists (95.8%) recognized tobacco use and alcohol consumption as very important risk factors for oral cancer occurrence. Almost all of participants were aware of the most common form of oral cancer (94.2%). Most of the dentists correctly identified the most common site of oral cancer (93.5%). Majority of the participants recognized the most commonly associated lesions with oral cancer (91.6%). While 37.4% of the dentists agreed that they were adequately trained in oral cancer screening, most (89.7%) believed that patients should have mandatory oral cancer screening at the clinics. Also, majority (95.8%) expressed their willingness to attend continuing education and training courses in cancer screening and prevention. Most of the dentists (81.9%) referred a patient with a suspicious lesion to a specialist. CONCLUSIONS: Majority of the dentists were aware and knowledgeable about various aspects of oral cancer. There is a need to emphasize and reinforce the training programs in oral cancer education mainly in prevention and early detection. Continuing education programs and workshops are highly recommended to raise awareness of the dentists on risk factors and diagnosis of oral cancer.

The Influence of Dentists' Profile and Health Work Management in the Performance of Brazilian Dental Teams.

To evaluate the association between dentists' profile and health work management with the performance of primary care dental teams in the Brazilian National Health System, both nationally and regionally. Secondary data analysis from a Brazilian National Programme that evaluated 18,114 Brazilian dental teams, working in the public sector, between 2013 and 2014. Twenty-four independent variables taken from dentists' profile and dental team management characteristics were analysed to assess their influence on reported "dental team performance." An estimated score was generated from their performance on 20 dental procedures by an item response theory model. Multiple linear regression models were performed for each Brazilian geographical region, separately and for the whole of Brazil. p values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. Two variables related to dentists' profile, "having graduate studies" (ß = 0.151) and "undertaking continuing professional development training" (ß = 0.101), were associated with enhanced dental team performance in all five Brazilian geographical regions and nationally. The dental team management variables of "having a flexible dental appointment list" (ß = 0.218) and "monitoring oral health indicators" (ß = 0.132) also contributed to improve team performance in each of the regions and nationally. Dentists' profile influenced the performance of dental teams from south region more than the other regions. The findings suggest that continuing professional development, including postgraduate education, and strategic management characteristics are important for primary dental care performance and should be reflected in health policy initiatives in support of quality care. Regional factors could be considered for health care management.

Mercury hygiene and biomedical waste management practices among dental health-care personnel in public hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Indiscriminate disposal of hospital wastes including mercury/amalgam wastes pose a serious threat to life and environment. There is a growing concern about biomedical waste (BMW) management among health care workers, however there are limited reports on BMW management by dental personnel in developing countries. OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the level of knowledge of BMW, observance of proper mercury hygiene and BMW management practice among public dental personnel in Lagos State, Nigeria. METHODS: A cross-sectional study regarding BMW management across public hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria was conducted following institutional ethics committee approval. A self-administered questionnaire was utilized to obtain data from different facilities selected by purposive and simple random sampling techniques as applicable. The questionnaires were distributed among 437 respondents by convenience sampling. The resulting data were statistically tested using Chi-square and G-test with p-value < 0.05 indicating significant level. RESULTS: Amongst 437 respondents, majority were females (62.5%) and the highest proportion fell within the age range of 25-34 years (44.4%). Only 17.2% of the respondents had good knowledge of BMW management/legislation and 4.1% had good BMW practice. Less than half (49.4%) of respondents disposed mercury-contaminated materials inside the trash and majority (92.2%) did not observe proper mercury hygiene. Significantly better mercury hygiene practices were observed in secondary facilities (p=0.040). CONCLUSION: A minor proportion of public dental personnel had good knowledge and practice of proper mercury hygiene and BMW management. This shows there is an urgent need for training of health personnel on proper BMW handling and disposal in developing countries like Nigeria.

Conhecimento de acadêmicos de Odontologia acerca da avulsão dentária / Knowledge of dental students about tooth avulsion

Objetivo: verificar o conhecimento de acadêmicos de Odontologia de uma instituição de ensino superior da Paraíba acerca da avulsão dentária. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo transversal, no qual 64 acadêmicos responderam um formulário com perguntas objetivas relativas a dados sociodemográficos, período de formação do curso e conhecimento e condutas em casos de avulsão dentária. Foi realizada análise descritiva de frequência absoluta e relativa dos dados (SPSS, v. 20.0). Resultados: a maioria dos acadêmicos recebeu informações sobre avulsão dentária em aulas ministradas no curso (86%) e indicaria a irrigação com soro fisiológico seguida de reimplante quando da ocorrência do trauma há menos de uma hora (64,1%) e há mais de uma hora (43,8%). O tratamento endodôntico foi indicado, independentemente do tempo do dente fora do alvéolo, por 34,4% da amostra. A contenção rígida foi a mais indicada para o dente reimplantado (48,4%) e seu tempo mínimo de proservação radiográfica respondido pela maioria dos pesquisados foi de 6 meses (48,4%). Conclusões: apesar de a maioria dos acadêmicos ter recebido informações acerca da temática, o conhecimento foi considerado insuficiente em relação a condutas referentes ao reimplante dentário, indicação do tratamento endodôntico, tipo de contenção e tempo de proservação.(AU)

Objective: to verify the knowledge of dental students from a Higher Education Institution of Paraíba about dental avulsion. Methods: a cross- -sectional study was carried out, in which 64 students answered a form with objective questions regarding sociodemographic data, course period, knowledge and conduct in cases of tooth avulsion. Descriptive analysis of absolute and relative frequency of data was performed (SPSS, v. 20.0). Results: most students received information about dental avulsion during the graduation classes (86%) and would indicate irrigation with saline solution followed by reimplantation when the trauma occurred less than one hour (64.1%) and more than one hour (43.8%). Endodontic treatment was indicated, regardless of the time the tooth was out of the dental socket, according 34.4% of the sample. Rigid retention was the most indicated for the reimplanted tooth (48.4%) and six months was the minimum radiographic follow-up time answered by most students (48.4%). Conclusions: although most students have received information about the topic, the knowledge was considered insufficient in relation to some aspects of the protocols recommended for emergency care for dental avulsion, with emphasis on behaviors related to dental reimplantation, indication of endodontic treatment, type of containment and follow-up.(AU)

Knowledge, awareness, attitude and practice of dental practitioners regarding Covid-19 pandemic and infection control: a cross sectional study in Kolkata metropolitan region.

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic with more than 53,973 people affected in West Bengal state of India. OBJECTIVES: The aim of present study was to assess the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of dental practitioners in Kolkata city, West Bengal, India regarding COVID-2019 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Online questionnaire was distributed among dentists across West Bengal city, using a combination of convenience and snowball sampling. The questionnaire had 17 questions: (1) Section A was 'General section' which comprised of socio-demographic and professional details of the subjects; and (2) Section B comprised of 14 questions depicting knowledge, awareness attitude and practice regarding COVID-19. The data collected was subjected to statistical analysis with level of significance at p=0.05. The descriptive statistical analysis was done to compute frequency and percentages. Intergroup comparison was determined by Chi-square statistical analysis to determine the level of significance for responses of each question. RESULTS: Around 70.4% undergraduates participated in the study. Only 4.3% showed accurate knowledge with respect to the incubation period of coronavirus. Coughing and sneezing was considered to be the most common mode of transmission. 98.9% of dentists considered fever to be the characteristic symptom of the disease. Hand washing and alcohol rubs was advocated by 99.5% of the dentist. Emergency procedures were considered necessary by 90.8% dentists. 75.1% of dentists agree that their practice has been affected by the pandemic. CONCLUSION: A constant update regarding COVID-19 should be made available to dental health care professionals through webinars, seminars, discussions and articles. Dentists should keep themselves updated and help to fight against this pandemic.

Special care dentistry perception among dentists in Jakarta: An online survey study.

Special Care Dentistry (SCD) or Special Needs Dentistry is a branch of dentistry concerned with the oral health of people with a variety of medical conditions or limitations that require more than routine delivery of care. There were reports on oral status of special care patients and special interest group for SCD dentists in Indonesia has existed. However, there was not perception report on SCD amongst dentists in Jakarta. This paper will describe the perception of dentists in Jakarta towards SCD. A cross-sectional questionnaire, translated and cross adapted to Indonesian, was distributed online through Whatsapp to dentists registered in Jakarta late 2019. Quantitative data was analyzed using statistical software for proportion and correlation using Chi-Square test. The questionnaire explored dentists' perception towards SCD. A total of 250 dentists participated in this study, of them 173 general practitioners and 77 specialist dentists. Most respondents reported that they did not have SCD component during undergraduate dental school and did not provide treatment to patients with special needs in their clinical practice. Most respondents have poor perception of SCD, however, most of the respondents showed motivation and interest towards SCD training. Dentists in Jakarta involved in this study had poor perception of SCD. More efforts should be performed to improve SCD education and awareness.

Percepção de cirurgiões-dentistas da atenção primária à saúde no cuidado à população em situação de rua / Perception of dentists in primary health care in the care of the homeless

Objetivos: descrever as práticas e os conhecimentos de cirurgiões-dentistas (CDs) da atenção primária à saúde do município de Ribeirão Preto, SP, em relação à população em situação de rua (PSR), caracterizar o perfil dos cirurgiões-dentistas, avaliar a percepção dos profissionais em relação ao conhecimento da Política Na-cional para a População em Situação de Rua (PNPSR) e experiências com a PSR. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo exploratório, utilizando questionário autoaplicável on-line. Os dados foram compilados pelo software Microsoft Excel versão 2010 e foi realizada análise descritiva dos dados. Resulta-dos: dos 29 CDs participantes, todos possuíam algum nível de pós-graduação, nunca receberam algum tipo de capacitação sobre a PSR (100%), mas têm interesse em recebê-la (82,7%). Consideram seu conhecimento sobre PSR como regular (41,4%) e se sentem parcialmente capacitados para identificar o uso abusivo de álcool (44,8%) e drogas (37,9%); 51,7% não têm contato com serviços de assistência social; 38% relataram experiências positivas durante os atendimentos à PSR, envolvendo a resolubilidade das urgências e a gratidão demonstrada pela PSR; 31% relataram experiências negativas, relacionadas ao atendimento sob efeito de substâncias, à agressividade e à não adesão ao tratamento. Apesar de possuírem conhecimento das caracte-rísticas sociodemográficas da PSR, 51,7% dos entrevistados desconhecem a existência da PNPSR. Conclusão: os resultados mostram que os CDs da atenção primária à saúde do município são qualificados, mas, em geral, possuem baixa familiaridade com as especificidades encontradas no atendimento da população e, em sua maioria, desconhecem a existência da PNPSR.(AU)

Objective: to describe the practices and knowledge of dentists in primary health care in the city of Ribeirão Preto-SP in relation to the Homeless Population (HP), to characterize the profile of dentists, and to assess the perception of professionals in relation to knowledge of the National Policy for the Homeless Population (NPHP) and their experiences with HP. Methods: this is an exploratory descriptive cross-sectional study, using an online self-administered questionnaire. Data were compiled using Microsoft Excel 2010 software and descriptive data analysis was performed. Results: The 29 participating dentists, who had some postgraduate level, never received any type of training on PSR (100%), but they were interested in receiving it (82.7%). They considered their knowledge of HP as regular (41.4%) and felt partially able to identify the abusive use of alcohol (44.8%) and drugs (37.9%). 51.7% have no contact with social assistance services. 38% reported positive experiences during consultations with the HP, involving the resolution of emergencies and the gratitude shown by the HP. 31% reported negative experiences related to care under the influence of substances, aggression and non-adherence to treatment. Despite having knowledge of the sociodemographic characteristics of PSR, 51.7% of respondents are unaware of the existence of NPHP. Conclusion: the results show that the primary health care dentists in the municipality are qualified, but, in general, are not familiar with the specificities found in the care of the population and, for the most part, are unaware of the existence of the National Policy for the Population in Street Situation.(AU)

Survey on Tunisian Dentists' Anti-Inflammatory Drugs' Prescription in Dental Practice.

Dentists prescribe several types of drugs such as anti-inflammatory medicines in their practice in order to manage pain. An adequate knowledge of anti-inflammatory drugs' characteristics is mandatory for a reasonable prescription to ensure patients safety. The study aimed to describe dentists' anti-inflammatory drugs prescription in dental practice. Materials and Methods. This study was conducted on independent practice dentists working in the region of Tunis. A questionnaire was made on "Google forms" and sent to all of them via personal emails. The questionnaire included demographic data and 13 questions about anti-inflammatory medicines: indications and contraindications, the side effects, and their prescription in dental practice. Data analysis was performed on SPSS software version 20.0 (trial version), using the χ2 test for statistical analysis. Results. Two hundred dentists participated to the survey. The female gender was predominant (70%). More than half of the responders were recently graduated and working in their own dental offices. The present study showed that 60% of dentists rarely prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen was prescribed by 82% of the dentists. Next came dexamethasone acetate (68.2%). The most frequent indication was postoperative pain (65%). Gastric problem was found to be the most mentioned adverse effect (69%). Thus, 72% of the dentists prescribed proton pump inhibitors with AI. Conclusion. According to this study, dentists have a lack of knowledge and awareness about some contraindications, side effects, and drugs interactions. Thus, knowledge updating, practices assessment, and continuous education are always required to avoid drug iatrogenesis.

The Use of Hall's Technique Preformed Metal Crown (HTPMC) by Pediatric Dentists in Malaysia.

INTRODUCTION: Hall's technique preformed metal crown (HTPMC) has been used widely by pediatric dentists in developed countries as a new approach for managing decayed primary molars without local anesthesia, caries removal, and tooth preparation. Currently, inadequate information is available regarding the implementation of this technique (HTPMC) in Malaysia. This study is aimed at evaluating the implementation of HTPMC by Malaysia's pediatric dentists and identify the co-occurrence frequencies of the HTPMC implementation with the respondents' demographic profile. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based research was conducted among 65 pediatric dentists in Malaysia. Online questionnaires were distributed to the pediatric dentists employed at public hospitals (MOH) and universities in Malaysia. RESULT: It was found that over half of the respondents (65.6%) employed HTPMC. The analysis of the co-occurrence network frequency revealed that a high frequency of female pediatric dentists who were within the age group of 31-40 years old had fulfilled their postgraduation overseas and was employed in the university mainly applied HTPMC. CONCLUSION: The application of HTPMC among respondent pediatric dentists in Malaysia was high. However, most respondents considered HTPMC a treatment option only to manage carious primary molar rather than a treatment of choice.