The Relationship Between Dental Provider Density and Receipt of Dental Care Among Medicaid-enrolled Adults.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to measure the association of dental provider density and receipt of dental care among Medicaid-enrolled adults. METHODS: We used four years of Indiana Medicaid claims and enrollment data (2015 to 2018) and the Area Health Resources File to examine the relationship between any dental visit (ADV) or any preventive dental visit (PDV) and three county-level measures of dental provider density (the total number of Medicaid-participating dentists, a binary indicator of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) with a Medicaid-participating dentist, and the overall county dentist-to-population ratio). RESULTS: The likelihood of ADV or PDV increased with greater density of Medicaid-participating dentists as well as dentists accepting Medicaid working at an FQHC within the county. The overall dentist-to-population ratio was not associated with dental care use among the adult Medicaid population. CONCLUSION: Dentist participation in Medicaid program may be a modifiable barrier to Medicaid-enrolled adults' receipt of dental care.

Conhecimento do cirurgião-dentista sobre as implicações judiciais embutidas na cirurgia estética de bichectomia / Knowledge of the dentist on the judicial implications embedded in aesthetic surgery of bichectomy

Objetivo: Analisar se os cirurgiões-dentistas têm conhecimento das implicações judiciais embutidas na cirurgia estética de bichectomia. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo no qual foi aplicado um questionário estruturado aos docentes cirurgiões-dentistas da Faculdade Maria Milza (FAMAM) que realizam bichectomia. Os dados do questionário foram organizados em forma de tabela, apresentando informações sociodemográficas e sobre o conhecimento deles em relação aos aspectos judicias embutidos neste tipo de cirurgia. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 08 cirurgiões-dentistas, docentes da Faculdade Maria Milza. A maioria era do sexo masculino, com idade entre 29 a 39 anos, com tempo de docência menor igual a 5 anos e atuando em clínica privada. A maioria afirmou estar ciente das possíveis implicações judiciais e se previnir destas, no entanto, grande parte da amostra estudada não tinha conhecimento do Código Civil Brasileiro. Conclusão: A maioria dos dentistas não possuíam conhecimento sobre o Código Civil Brasileiro, mas sabem que podem responder processos movidos pelos pacientes. Frente a isso, eles estão se protegendo de possíveis implicações de ordem judicial relacionados a cirurgia de bichectomia.(AU)

Objective: To analyze whether dentists are aware of the judicial implications embedded in cosmetic surgery for bichectomy. Methods: This is a descriptive study in which a structured questionnaire was applied to the professors-dentists at Faculdade Maria Milza (FAMAM) who perform bichectomy. The questionnaire data were organized in form of a table, presenting sociodemographic information and their knowledge in relation to the judicial aspects embedded in this type of surgery. Results: The sample consisted of 08 dental surgeons, professors at Faculdade Maria Milza. Most were male, aged between 29 and 39 years old, with less than 5 years of teaching experience and working in a private clinic. The majority claimed to be aware of the possible legal implications and to prevent them, however, a large part of the sample studied was not aware of the Brazilian Civil Code. Conclusion: Most surgeons had no knowledge of the Brazilian Civil Code, but they know that they can respond to a lawsuit brought by patients. Faced with this, they are protecting themselves from possible implications of a court order related to bichectomy surgery.(AU)

Evidence-practice gap in treatment decisions about defective composite and amalgam restorations among Brazilian dentists

Better understanding of dentists' decision-making about defective restorations is needed to close the evidence-practice gap (EPG). This study aimed to quantify the EPG about defective restorations and identify dentist factors associated with this EPG. Methods: 216 dentists from São Paulo State, Brazil, completed a questionnaire about three clinical case scenarios involving defective composite restorations with cementum-dentin margins (case 1) and enamel margins (case 2), and an amalgam (case 3) restoration. Dentists were asked what treatment, if any, they would recommend, including preventive treatment, polishing, re-surfacing, or repairing the restoration, or replacing the entire restoration. Replacing the entire restoration in any of these three scenarios was classified as inconsistent with the evidence, comprising an EPG. Bivariate analyses using Chi-square, ANOVA, or multiple comparison tests were performed (p<.05). Results: for defective composite restorations, 49% and 55% of dentists chose to replace the entire restoration for cases 1 and 2, respectively. Twenty-nine percent of dentists chose to replace the entire amalgam restoration. Dentists were significantly more likely to choose to replace the defective amalgam restoration than the composite restoration with a defect at the cementum-dentin margins or the enamel margins (both at p < .001). Female dentists were more likely to choose a conservative treatment than male dentists for cases 1 (p=.034) and 2 (p=.009). Dentists with a higher percentage of patients interested in individualized caries prevention were also more conservative in case 1 (p=.045). Conclusion: a substantial EPG regarding treatment decisions for defective restorations exists, especially for composite restorations. This study adds to the international evidence that an EPG exists in this clinical area and that global strategies need to be developed to close the gap

Número de cirurgiões-dentistas e PIB per capitanos municípios paraibanos com cursos de graduação em Odontologia / Number of dentists and GDP per capita in the municipalities of the state of Paraíba with undergraduate courses in Dentistry

O objetivo deste estudo foi relacionar a distribuição dos cursos de Odontologia, número de cirurgiões-dentistas(CD)ePIBper capita em municípios paraibanos com cursos de graduação em Odontologia. Trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo com utilização de dados coletados diretamente dossites do Conselho Federal de Odontologia, do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatísticae do Cadastro Nacional de Cursose Instituições de Ensino Superior. Todos os dados utilizados nesta pesquisa são de acesso público. AParaíba possui 16 cursos de graduação em Odontologia, distribuídos em 6 munícipios: Araruna (1; 6,25%), Cabedelo (1; 6,25%), Cajazeiras (2; 12,50%), Campina Grande (6; 37,50%), João Pessoa (4; 25,00%) e Patos (2; 12,50%).Os municípios com maiores valores de PIB per capita, como João Pessoa (R$24.319,82) e Campina Grande (R$21.077,30), apresentaram também maior número de CD, com uma correlação positiva entre os valores do PIB per capitade cada município e a quantidade de cursos e profissionais. Apesar disso, Cabedelo, município paraibano com apenas um curso de Odontologia, sendo este na rede privada, e 126 CDs em atividade, tem o maior PIB per capita do estado (R$ 42.556,16). O PIB per capita parece ser responsável pela distribuição de CDs nos municípios com cursos de graduação em Odontologia, no entanto, fatores como qualidade de vida, mercado de trabalho e saúde, tendem a exercerforte influência na distribuição destes profissionais (AU).

This study aimed at relating the distribution of Dentistry courses, number of dental surgeons (DS) and GDP per capitain municipalities of the state of Paraíbawith undergraduate courses in Dentistry. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study using secondary data from the Brazilian Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO), the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and the National Registry of HigherEducation Courses and Institutions. All data used in this study is publicly accessible. The state has 16 undergraduate courses in Dentistry, distributed in 6 municipalities: Araruna (1; 6.25%), Cabedelo (1; 6.25%), Cajazeiras (2; 12.50%), Campina Grande (6; 37.50%), João Pessoa (4; 25.00%) and Ducks (2; 12.50%). The municipalities with the highest GDP per capita, such as João Pessoa (R$ 24,319.82) and Campina Grande (R$ 21,077.30), also had a higher number of DS, with a positive correlation between the values of GDPper capita of each municipality and the number of courses and professionals. Besides, Cabedelo, a municipality in Paraíbawith only one Dentistry course, which is in the private network, and 126 active DS, has the highest GDPper capita in the state (R$ 42,556.16) (table 2). According to the results presented in this study, GDP per capita seems to be responsible for the distribution of SD in municipalities with undergraduate courses in Dentistry. However, factors such as quality of life, labor market and health tend to strongly influence the distribution of these professionals (AU).

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.

Endodontic practice amongst Nigerian dentists undergoing postgraduate training.

INTRODUCTION: this study aimed at finding out current practice of endodontics amongst Nigerian dentists undergoing postgraduate training (also referred to as dental resident doctors) in different institutions across the nation. METHODS: a questionnaire-based, cross sectional study was conducted amongst dentists undergoing postgraduate training. Questions were asked on demographics, protocol for root canal treatment (RCT), materials employed in different stages. Opinions were also sought on satisfaction with their practice and training needs in endodontics. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 20.0 and presented as tables and charts. Significance level was set at p≤0.05. RESULTS: ninety dentists undergoing postgraduate training (57 males and 33 females) with mean age of 34.81 ± 5.9 years participated in the study. Root canal treatment was mostly done in multiple visits in both single and multi-rooted teeth (p=0.01), only about 15% performed the procedure on multi rooted teeth. Sixty-five (72.2%) never used Rubber dam, stainless steel files were being used by 69%, step down technique of preparation by 53.9% and Sodium hypochlorite was the major irrigant (80%) used. Obturation was majorly with Cold lateral compaction technique (94%), 57.2% delayed definitive restoration for maximum of 1 week and amalgam was still the major material used for posterior teeth as reported by 62.9% of the participants. The majority (55.6%) were not satisfied with their current knowledge and practice and most were those that did not have good undergraduate training (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: the practice of endodontics needs standardization across the nation as it is being advocated in other countries. There is need for hands on-training on endodontics to encourage adoption of new advances in technology, as well as improve the training of postgraduate dentists in endodontics. Also, emphasis should be placed on use of rubber dam in order to minimize the spread of infection and protect the patients from aspiration of small instruments involved in endodontic procedure.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices among dental practitioners on methods of infection control while carrying out dental procedures during novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: dental procedures produce bio-aerosols that can carry the highly contagious COVID-19 virus. Hence, the entire dental care team has to follow the current COVID-19 related infection control protocols. The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices associated with infection control methods during dental procedures among dental practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. METHODS: the online questionnaire consisted of four sections namely, demographic details, eight questions on knowledge, four questions on attitude and eight questions on the practice of dentists during COVID-19 pandemic. One point was attributed for a correct response and zero point for an incorrect response. The study used descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression models in Jamovi 1.8.1 to establish relationships between knowledge, attitude, and practices among dental professionals and their demographic characteristics. RESULTS: among 384 dentists, 294 (76.6%) were aware of the hand hygiene methods, 372 dentists (96.9%) were aware of the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), 343 dentists (89.3%) recorded the body temperature of the patients. One hundred and thirty eight (138) dentists (35.9%) did not use rubber dam and 158 dentists (41.1%) were not aware of the four-handed dentistry. Among the study participants, 57.8% displayed adequate knowledge, 63.8% possessed good attitude and 93.5% followed good practices on COVID-19 appropriate infection control measures during dental procedures. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were found to be 6.61, 2.04, and 3.38 respectively. Based on multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, it is observed that males (aOR: 0.55, 95% CI 0.35-0.87; p=0.011) have a lower likelihood of having a good knowledge when compared with females after adjusting for the other independent variables in the model. Also, individuals with higher qualifications (aOR: 0.57, 95% CI 0.36-0.92; p=0.022) appear to have lower likelihood of having good knowledge on COVID-19 infection control methods during dental procedure. CONCLUSION: the study concludes that participants possess sound knowledge, attitude and practice on hand hygiene, PPE, patient triage and waiting area modifications at the workplace. However, poor response was noted on the use of rubber dam, remote telephonic screening and four-handed dentistry practice.

Teledentistry as a Supportive Tool for Dentists in Pakistan.

The current scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic has forced dentists to seek different options for delivering healthcare services other than the in-person direct examination in clinical practice. Teledentistry is one of the options for remote patient care and monitoring. Objective. The present survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of the dentists in Pakistan regarding teledentistry as an emergent supportive tool. Materials and Methods. A self-administered, close-ended, and prevalidated survey questionnaire was used, comprising 21 questions, and distributed electronically via e-mail, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger to evaluate the knowledge and perception of dentists regarding teledentistry. The data collected was compiled in a systematic manner and analyzed in terms of frequency (yes/no). Results. Out of a total of 350 dentists, 325 responded to the questionnaire, and it was seen that 62.5% of them did not have knowledge about teledentistry prior to COVID-19. 65.8% of dentists considered the practice of teledentistry in nonpandemic situations in the future. Conclusion. In the present study, it was observed that most of the dental professionals had inadequate knowledge about teledentistry before COVID-19, but the awareness and perception regarding teledentistry were currently satisfactory among the dental professionals in Pakistan. This emerging trend gives a positive hope for the implementation of teledentistry in the healthcare setup of Pakistan in the near future, as it will prove to be beneficial for safe dental practice during times of pandemic and even after.

Dentists have a high occupational risk of neck disorders with impact on somatosensory function and neck mobility.

OBJECTIVES: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the neck and shoulder region may be associated with significant impairment of quality of life and well-being. The study was to determine the prevalence of painful MSDs in Chinese dentists and evaluate somatosensory function and neck mobility compared with non-dental professional controls. METHODS: One hundred dentists (age: 36.5 ± 9.8 years) and 102 controls (age: 36.2 ± 10.0 years) were recruited between September 2019 and December 2020. The Medical Outcome Study 36-item short-form health survey questionnaire and information of MSDs history were recorded. The cervical range of motion (CROM) with and without pain, and the pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) of the facial and neck muscles were tested. Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The factors in the multiple linear regression analysis were occupation, working age, and gender. RESULTS: The prevalence rate of neck pain was significantly higher in dentists (73.0%) compared with the controls (52.0%) (P = .002). The regression models of cervical range of posterior extension, lateral flexion and rotation were statistically significant (P ≤ .001). The regression models of PPTs of the tested facial and neck muscles were statistically significant (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Dentists are at higher risk of neck pain. The bigger cervical range of left rotation of dentists could be related to the working posture. The lower PPTs in dentists may reflect a hypersensitivity in the facial and neck muscles. Preventive measures are needed to reduce occupational hazards in dentists.

Attitude and acceptance of Covid-19 vaccine amongst medical and dental fraternity - a questionnaire survey.

BACKGROUND: The second wave of Novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2) is proving more disastrous than the first because of the new mutant stains. Under these circumstances, vaccination is the only effective solution that can save millions of lives across the globe. OBJECTIVES: The present study was conducted to assess the attitude and acceptance/willingness of health care professionals (medical and dental) towards COVID-19 vaccine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online questionnaire survey was conducted among medical and dental professionals working in different hospitals of two states of India. A total of 520 subjects constituted the final sample size. A self-constructed questionnaire (divided into 2 parts) containing 12 questions was administered to obtain information from the subjects regarding their attitude and willingness towards COVID 19 vaccine. Statistical analysis was done using chi-square test and multiple liner regression analysis. Odds ratio with 95% CI were also generated. Statistical significance was set at p≤0.05. RESULTS: Majority of the subjects (67% of dental and 73% of medical) had full confidence on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine. Willingness to get vaccinated was shown by 63% of subjects and 65% had positive attitude towards vaccine. Some subjects (45.5% dental and 48.4% medical) showed concern regarding unforeseen effects of the vaccine. Willingness to get vaccinated was 3.45 higher in subjects who were involved in COVID duties. Subjects giving less preference to natural immunity over vaccine showed more willingness (OR: 2.98) towards getting the vaccine. CONCLUSION: The findings of the study showed that acceptance and attitude of subjects regarding COVID 19 vaccine was suboptimal as there were various factors which contributed towards subjects' hesitancy to get vaccinated. There is an utmost need to address various issues regarding vaccine safety to promote high uptake.

Awareness of Complications of Dental Treatment in Patients Treated with Drugs Affecting the Immune System : A Nationwide Questionnaire Survey of Dental Practitioners in Japan.

The aim of this study was to investigate the awareness and experience, among dental practitioners, of adverse events resulting from dental treatment of patients undergoing therapy with drugs that affect the immune system [angiogenesis inhibitors, biological agents, immunosuppressants, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)]. For this purpose, a nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted. Questionnaires were sent to 2,050 dentists, of which 206 (10.1%) were completed and returned. The results showed that most dentists were aware of complications associated with dental treatment of patients treated with drugs that affect the immune system, and about half had actually experienced such complications. Delayed wound healing, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), and postoperative infections were reported. Whereas approximately 50% of dentists did not discontinue the drugs during dental treatment, about 18% did. During temporary drug discontinuation, some patients experienced aggravation of the primary disease, such as worsening of rheumatism, growth of tumors, and rejection reactions of transplanted organs. As for medical cooperation, only less than half of the dentists were asked for oral hygiene management by a physician prior to starting the drug treatment. Prospective studies are needed because evidence for dental treatments in patients treated with these drugs remains limited.

Forecasting for the need of dentists and specialists in South Africa until 2030.

To manage the increasing burden of dental diseases, a robust health system is essential. In order to ensure the oral health system operates at an optimal level going into the future, a forecast of the national shortfall of dentists and dental specialists in South Africa (SA) was undertaken. There is currently a shortage of dentists and specialists in SA and given the huge burden of dental diseases, there is a dire need to increase the number of these health care workers. The aim was to determine the projected shortfall of dentists and specialists in each of the nine provinces in SA. The projected shortfall was calculated based on the SA Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) for each province. The estimate for the evaluation of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) for SA was obtained from the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) Global Burden of Disease website. For each province, age standardized DALYs were calculated with mid-year population estimates obtained from Statistics SA 2018. In order to reduce the existing human resources for health (HRH) inequity among the provinces of SA, three scenarios were created focussing on attaining horizontal equity. The best-case scenario estimates a shortfall of 430, 1252 and 1885 dentists and specialists in 2018, 2024 and 2030 respectively. In an optimistic scenario, the national shortfall was calculated at 733, 1540 and 2158 dentists and specialists for the years 2018, 2024 and 2030 respectively. In an aspirational scenario, shortfalls of 853 (2018), 1655 (2024) and 2267 (2030) dentists and specialists were forecasted. Access to oral health services should be ensured through the optimum supply of trained dentists and specialists and the delivery of appropriate oral health services. Thus, the roadmap provided for upscaling the oral health services recognizes the influence of both demand and supply factors on the pursuit of equity.

Antibiotic Prescribing Habits and Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness of Dental Practitioners in Primorsko-Goranska County, Croatia.

Purpose: The goal of this study was to investigate the differences in dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding antibiotic use and resistance among two areas of Primorsko-Goranska County (P-GC), Croatia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study based on a structured questionnaire that was given to 230 dental practitioners in outpatient settings of P-GC in 2018. Results: The overall response rate was 68.3% (157/230) and 72.2% (83/115) in the city of Rijeka and 64.3% (74/115) in the rest of P-GC. Dentists from two areas of P-GC held similar knowledge about prescribing antibiotics and attitudes regarding antibiotic use (p > 0.05). Most of the dental practitioners chose penicillins (65.0% amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and 33.1% amoxicillin) as the first-choice antibiotic in patients with no medical allergies. The trend of prescribing amoxicillin decreases with the age of the dentists (p = 0.046). Clindamycin (86.6%) was the first choice for patients allergic to penicillin. Postgraduate education changed the attitude toward taking more time to consider whether or not an antibiotic is needed. Croatian dentists had a high awareness of antimicrobial resistance (99.4%). The most common situations for which dentists would prescribe antibiotics were periapical abscess (84.7%), periodontal abscess (72.6%), and implant placement (59.9%). Patient request or expectation (43.4%) and treatment uncertainty (41.5%) were found to be the main factors for prescribing antibiotics with more frequency. Conclusions: Although there is a high level of antimicrobial resistance awareness among dental practitioners, there is still too much overuse of antibiotics and personal responsibility for prudent antibiotic use should be increased. The results of this study indicate that antibiotics are frequently prescribed for indications where surgical treatment should be the first option and the broad spectrum antibiotic is the preferred treatment option.

Prevalence of corona-associated anxiety and mental health disorder among dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and severity of corona-associated anxiety and mental health disorder among Iranian dentists during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A study was conducted using online survey from May 2nd to 14th, 2020. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic information, anxiety (18 questions), and general health (GH) (GHQ-28). Scoring system was based on Likert scale. The questionnaire was registered at Porsline website. Data were analyzed using t test and Pearson's correlation coefficient statistical tests. RESULTS: A total of 320 dentists from all over the country fully completed questionnaires. 42.5% of dentist had corona-associated anxiety and 32.5% out of them had mild severity and no severe anxiety was observed. 62.5% of dentists were nonpsychiatric according to GHQ-28, 35% had mild disorders in GH, and no one had severe GH disorders. There were significant relationships between gender, marital status, and family history of psychiatric disorders with GH status. There was a significant relationship between history of physical illness with corona-associated anxiety. There was a significant relationship between history of psychiatric disorders with corona-associated anxiety and GH status. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of corona-associated anxiety and mental disorders in dentists was moderate; by holding psychological workshops to maintain and strengthen the morale of dentists during the corona pandemic, along with teaching them the correct way to use personal protective equipment, while maintaining the mental health of dentists, we will help them return to work and provide dental services.

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.

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.

Oral and oropharyngeal cancer: Knowledge, attitude and practices among medical and dental practitioners.

BACKGROUND: Oral and oropharyngeal cancer are significant health problems. They are both life-threatening conditions usually diagnosed at an advanced stage causing survival rates to decline. AIM: To assess and compare practices, knowledge and attitude regarding oral and oropharyngeal cancer between dental and medical practitioners. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitude and practices of oral and oropharyngeal cancer among dental and medical practitioners at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 360 participants were included in the study using a convenient sampling technique. Participants were approached in their clinics and printed self-administered questionnaire were handed over to them after signing a written consent form. Frequency distribution and Chi-Square test were used for the statistical analysis and the level of significance was set at P value of .05 or less. RESULTS: A total of 174 participants responded. Assessment of oral and oropharyngeal cancer knowledge between dental practitioners and medical practitioners showed comparable results. Regarding practices, a significant difference was seen between medical practitioners and dental practitioners in determining the duration of intra-oral ulcer to consider urgent referral (P = .006) and in number of referrals made in relation to suspicious oral lesions (P = .002). Moreover, a significant difference (P = .006) was seen between medical practitioners and dental practitioners in determining the duration of intra-oral ulcer to consider urgent referral. CONCLUSION: Medical and dental practitioners showed areas of differences in practice, attitude and knowledge of oral and oropharyngeal cancer that when addressed would lead to improved survival rates.

Burnout among Hungarian dentists / Kiégés a magyar fogorvosok körében.

Összefoglaló. Bevezetés: A kiégés jelensége fokozottan érinti az egészségügyi dolgozókat, a nagyfokú stressz, a folyamatos fizikai és emocionális megterhelés miatt. A kiégés mérését fogorvosok körében végeztük, mivel Magyarországon még nem készült csak fogorvosokat méro keresztmetszeti vizsgálat. Célkituzés: Elsodleges célunk a fogorvosi kiégés elofordulásának, súlyosságának mérése, a rizikófaktorok kiszurése volt. Másodlagos célul a kiégés veszélyére való figyelem felkeltését tuztük ki az érintett csoportban. Módszer: Az adatgyujtés a 'Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey' 22 tételes magyar, validált változatával történt online formában. Eredmények: Online kérdoívünket 407 fogorvos töltötte ki. A következo eredményeket kaptuk: az emocionális kimerülés esetében a válaszadók 20%-a (81 fo) tartozik a magas kategóriába, a cinizmus dimenziójának esetében a válaszadók 17,5%-át (70 fo) jellemzi a magas pontszám. A teljesítményvesztés magas dimenziója a minta 75%-ában (302 fo) volt igazolható. Szignifikáns (p≤0,05) védofaktornak találtuk a harmonikus kollegiális viszonyt, a hobbi meglétét, a 2-4 óra napi munkát, a támogató otthoni és munkahelyi légkört, az egészségi probléma és a saját vállalkozás hiányát. Szignifikáns negatív eltérést 6-10 éve dolgozó férfiak körében találtunk. Következtetés: Az eredmények felhívják a figyelmet a legfontosabb protektív tényezokre, melyek segítségével csökkentheto a kiégés mértéke. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(11): 419-424. INTRODUCTION: Burnout has an increased impact on healthcare workers due to severe stress, constant physical and emotional strain. Burnout was measured among dentists, as no such cross-sectional study has been made in Hungary. OBJECTIVE: Our primary goal was to measure the incidence and severity of dental burnout and to screen for the risk factors. Our secondary goal was to raise awareness of the risk of burnout in the affected group. METHOD: Data collection was performed online with the 22-item Hungarian validated version of Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey. RESULTS: 407 dentists completed our online questionnaire. The following results were obtained: in the case of emotional exhaustion, 20% of the respondents belong to the high category, in the cynicism dimension, 17.5% of the respondents have high scores. The high dimension of performance loss is typical in 75% of the sample. We found that harmonious collegial relationships, the existence of a hobby, 2-4 hours of daily work, a supportive home and work atmosphere, the lack of health problems and self-employment are significant (p≤0.05) protective factors. Significant negative differences were found among men who had been working for 6-10 years. CONCLUSION: The results draw attention to the most important protective factors that can help reduce the rate of burnout. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(11): 419-424.

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)

Plan Type and Opioid Prescriptions for Children in Medicaid.

BACKGROUND: Opioids are generally an inappropriate acute pain management strategy in children, particularly because of the risk for diversion and subsequent misuse and abuse. OBJECTIVES: To examine associations between Medicaid plan type [coordinated care organization (CCO), managed care (MC), fee-for-service (FFS)] and whether a child received an opioid prescription. RESEARCH DESIGN: Secondary analysis of Oregon Medicaid data (January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017). SUBJECTS: Medicaid-enrolled children ages 0-17 (N=200,169). MEASURES: There were 2 outcomes: whether a child received an opioid prescription from (a) any health provider or (b) from a visit to the dentist. Predictor variables included Medicaid plan type, age, sex, race, and ethnicity. RESULTS: About 6.7% of children received an opioid from any health provider and 1.2% received an opioid from a dentist visit. Children in a CCO were significantly more likely than children in a MC (P<0.01) or FFS (P=0.02) plan to receive an opioid from any health provider. Children in a CCO were also significantly more likely than children in MC or FFS to receive an opioid from a dentist visit (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric opioid prescriptions vary by plan type. Future efforts should identify reasons why Medicaid-enrolled children in a CCO plan are more likely to be prescribed opioids.