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)

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.

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.

German Dentists' Preferences for the Treatment of Apical Periodontitis: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Currently, there is no standard treatment protocol for apical periodontitis (AP). Thus, restorable teeth might get extracted and replaced prosthetically. This study evaluated German dentists' preferred AP treatment decisions and the influencing factors for selecting tooth retention by initial/repeated surgical/non-surgical root-canal treatment (RCT) or extraction with/without prosthetic replacement. Through an online-survey, participants (n = 260) rated different treatment options for four case scenarios with AP in anterior/posterior teeth without/with previous RCT. Statistical analysis included the Friedman test for intra-case comparisons and Chi-squared test for factor-associations (p ≤ 0.05). Tooth retention using initial/repeated RCT was ranked first in all scenarios and rated as (very) appropriate by most participants, while implant-supported crowns (ISC) and apicoectomy had the second ratings. ISC were preferred more on posterior teeth or previous root-canal-treated teeth. Rating levels of treatment options displayed significant differences for all case scenarios. Posterior tooth retention by RCT demonstrated a significant association with work experience. Tooth retention with previous RCT displayed a significant correlation with dentists' privately insured patients. Most dentists preferred tooth preserving with initial/repeated RCT, while others selected non-evidence-based choices. This reflects a lack of consensus of AP treatment decisions in Germany. Fixed treatment guidelines and further evaluation of treatment-decision-correlated factors are recommended for correct treatment planning.

Oral Manifestations of Nutritional Deficiencies: Single Centre Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Oral manifestations of deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid are thought to be common. Prevalence of these deficiencies among patients with compatible symptoms is not well known. The goal of this study was to summarize evidence from a dental practice of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency in patients presenting with compatible oral manifestations. METHODS: 250 patients who presented with burning mouth syndrome, angular cheilitis, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, papillar atrophy of the tongue dorsum or mucosal erythema were identified. Patients underwent clinical examination, and the blood samples were taken. RESULTS: 250 patients (208 females; 42 males, mean age 44.1 years) with at least one corresponding symptom or sign were identified. The nutritional deficiency of one or more nutrients was found in 119 patients (47.6%). Seven times more females than males were noted to have one type of deficiency (104 females, 15 males). Iron deficiency as defined was diagnosed in 62 patients (24.8%), vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency in 44 patients (17.6%) and both deficiencies (iron + vitamin B12/folic acid) in 13 patients (5.2%). The only predictive factor was gender and only for iron deficiency. The presence of more than one deficiency was noted in 10 patients (4.9%). CONCLUSION: The most commonly observed deficiency in dental practice over the course of 11 years was an iron deficiency in the female population. Age, diet and reported co-morbidities did not show statistically significant predictable value in recognizing these deficiencies.

Perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on orthodontic practice by orthodontists and orthodontic residents in Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had far-reaching effects on orthodontic care delivery worldwide. This study aimed to assess the impacts of the pandemic on orthodontists and orthodontic residents in Nigeria. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among consenting orthodontists and orthodontic residents. The respondents were contacted through the WhatsApp group of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontists to fill the self-administered online questionnaires (Google forms). The questionnaire had two sections: A, Sociodemographics; B, Perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Descriptive statistics were used to compute mean and standard deviation and chi-square for association. Level of significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: This study population comprised 98 people; however, only 73 participants responded, which represented a response rate of 74.5%. Approximately 60% (44) of the respondents thought that the COVID-19 pandemic would lead to a reduction in the number of orthodontic patients in the future, whereas almost all the respondents reported that it would affect their future practice of orthodontics. Most of the respondents (63.0%) reported that the pandemic had recorded a moderate to severe negative economic impact on them. Significant gender differences were recorded, in the social life of respondents, in addition to economic and psychosocial effects. CONCLUSIONS: Almost all respondents reported that they would change their future practice of orthodontics, particularly with respect to placing a greater emphasis on infection control. Most of the respondents reported perceived economic, psychosocial, and social impacts due to the pandemic.

Perfil de utilização de anestésicos locais de uma cidade brasileira com ênfase em diabéticos / Profile of use of local anesthetics in a Brazilian city with emphasis on diabetics

Objetivo: avaliar o conhecimento de cirurgiões-dentistas que trabalham em consultórios particulares de Palmas, Tocantins, quanto à utilização de anestésicos locais em pacientes portadores de diabetes mellitus. Materiais e método: trata-se de um estudo descritivo qualitativo, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da FAMERP de São José do Rio Preto, sob o protocolo 032/2007 e CAAE: 0065.0.000.140-07, respeitando-se a Resolução 466/12, do Conselho Nacional de Saúde. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio da aplicação de um questionário, utilizando um formulário estruturado. Resultados: de 113 participantes, 47 (41,6%) eram do sexo masculino e 66 (58,4%) do sexo feminino, com idade média de 35 anos. O anestésico mais utilizado pelos cirurgiões-dentistas avaliados foi a lidocaína 2% + adrenalina 1:100.000 (53,1%), o qual também é o mais utilizado para pacientes diabéticos controlados (64,6%). Quanto à variedade de anestésicos, 47,8% dos avaliados relataram possuir somente 3 tipos de anestésicos no consultório e que 83,2% nunca presenciaram nenhum problema decorrente do uso de anestésico. Além disso, 65,5% relataram não participar de cursos para atualização de conhecimentos, sendo que 53,1% mostraram-se insatisfeitos com o ensino de anestesiologia que receberam na graduação. Conclusão: observou-se que os cirurgiões-dentistas do atendimento odontológico particular de Palmas precisam de uma reciclagem profissional, a fim de atualizarem conhecimentos adquiridos na graduação sobre indicação e utilização de anestésicos locais em tratamentos odontológicos de pacientes com necessidades especiais, com ênfase em pacientes portadores de diabetes mellitus.(AU)

Objective: to evaluate the knowledge of dentists who work in private offices in Palmas, Tocantins, regarding the use of local anesthetics in patients with diabetes mellitus. Materials and method: this research is a qualitative descriptive study, approved by the Research Ethics Committee of FAMERP from São José do Rio Preto, under protocol number 032/2007 and CAAE: 0065.0.000.140-07 in compliance with the Resolution 466/12 of the National Health Council. Data collection was performed through the application of a questionnaire, using a structured form. Results: 47 (41.6%) out of 113 participants were male and 66 (58.4%) female, with an average age of 35 years old. The anesthetic most used by the dentists evaluated was lidocaine 2% + adrenaline 1: 100,000 (53.1%) which is also the most used for controlled diabetic patients (64.6%). As for the variety of anesthetics, 47.8% of those evaluated reported having only 3 types of anesthetics in the office and that 83.2% never saw any problems resulting from the use of anesthetics. Furthermore, 65.5% reported not participating in courses to update knowledge and 53.1% were dissatisfied with the teaching of anesthesiology they received during graduation. Conclusion: it was observed that dentists who work in private dental offices in Palmas need a professional retraining in order to update knowledge acquired during graduation on the indication and use of local anesthetics in dental treatments for patients with special needs, with an emphasis on patients with diabetes mellitus.(AU)

Abordagem dos cirurgiões-dentistas da Estratégia Saúde da Família sobre o câncer bucal / Analysis of the dental surgeon approach of the Familt Health Strategy on the oral cancer

Objetivo: este estudo busca analisar a atuação dos cirurgiões-dentistas da rede pública de saúde acerca do câncer bucal. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal no qual foram entrevistados 217 dentistas. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de um questionário estruturado, enviado via e-mail, pelo Conselho Regional de Odontologia do Rio Grande do Norte. Resultados: um terço dos profissionais relatou ser capaz de realizar biópsias e citologia esfoliativa, mas apenas 15,2% das unidades de saúde possuíam condições materiais para fazê-las. Cerca de 85% dos cirurgiões-dentistas possuíam o conhecimento básico sobre o câncer bucal e 66,8% realizavam ações educativas-preventivas. Conclusão: embora a maioria dos cirurgiões-dentistas tivessem conhecimento adequado para realizar o diagnóstico bucal, a maioria não era capaz de realizar procedimentos cirúrgicos com finalidade diagnóstica. A realização desse exame durante a atenção primária é perfeitamente possível, por necessitar de baixa complexidade de equipamentos, e sua eficácia no diagnóstico permite a detecção precoce e o início do tratamento em estágios iniciais da doença, podendo reduzir as taxas de mortalidade por câncer bucal.(AU)

Objective: this study sought to analyze the performance of dental surgeons in the public health network regarding oral cancer. Method: this is a cross-sectional study in which 217 dentists were interviewed. Data collection was conducted through a structured questionnaire sent via e-mail, by the Regional Council of Dentistry of Rio Grande do Norte. Results: one third of the professionals reported being able to perform biopsies and exfoliative cytology, but only 15.2% of the Health Units had material conditions to carry them out. About 85% of dental surgeons had basic knowledge about oral cancer, and 66.8% performed educational- preventive actions. Conclusion: although most dental surgeons had adequate knowledge to perform the oral diagnosis, most of them were not able to perform surgical procedures for diagnostic purposes. The performance of this exam in primary care is perfectly possible because it requires low equipment complexity, and its effectiveness in diagnosis allows for early detection and initiation of treatment in the early stages of the disease, which can reduce oral cancer mortality rates.(AU)

Avaliação do nível de percepção de cirurgiões-dentistas das redes pública e privada de um município do norte do Rio Grande do Sul sobre atenção em saúde a pacientes com necessidades especiais / Assessment dentists level of perception in public and private service of a city in the north of Rio Grande do Sul about health care for patients with special needs

Objetivo: identificar a percepção de cirurgiões-dentistas das redes pública e privada do município de Erechim, RS, sobre atenção em saúde a pacientes com necessidades especiais, avaliando conhecimento, preparo e limitações para o atendimento odontológico. Métodos: este estudo de caráter transversal ocorreu no período de março a agosto de 2019, por meio da aplicação de questionário próprio semiestruturado para cirurgiões-dentistas. Resultados: participaram da pesquisa 82 cirurgiões-dentistas, sendo a maioria (58,54%) atuantes na rede privada; 56,10% não cursaram uma disciplina específica em sua graduação sobre cuidados a pacientes com necessidades especiais. Em contrapartida, dos que cursaram, para a maioria, a disciplina era obrigatória e teórico-prática. Conclusão: apesar de somente 42,68% se sentirem muito bem ou bem preparados, somente 10,98% nunca realizaram atendimentos. Mesmo não tendo cursado uma disciplina específica em sua graduação, os cirurgiões-dentistas de Erechim, RS, realizam o atendimento e, quando necessário, o encaminhamento desses pacientes. Por manifestarem o interesse em se manterem atualizados sobre o tema, ações de educação continuada serão de fundamental importância.(AU)

Objective: assess dentists perception, about oral health care for patients with special needs, of public and private service of Erechim, RS, evaluating their knowledge, preparation and limitations for dental care. Methods: this cross-sectional research was conducted from March to August 2019, using questionnaires for dentists. Results: eighty-two dentists participated in the research, the majority (58.54%) are from the private service, 56.10% did not attend a specific discipline, in their graduation, about dental care for patients with special needs. In contrast, for those who attended, the discipline was compulsory and theoretical- -practical. Conclusion: although only 42.68% feel very well, or well prepared, only 10.98% never attended dental care. Even though they did not attend a specific discipline in their graduation, the dentists of Erechim, RS, perform dental care and, when necessary, they referral these patients. As they express their interest in keeping up to date on the topic, continuing education actions will be of fundamental importance.(AU)

Antibiotic prescription patterns for treating dental infections in children among general and pediatric dentists in teaching institutions of Karachi, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Antibiotics are regularly prescribed by dental professionals in their practice, for the purpose of dental treatment as well as for the prevention of infection. The inappropriate use of antibiotics is a significant factor in the rise of antibiotic resistance. There is an immediate need for the advancement of prescribing guidelines and instructive polices to encourage the rational and appropriate utilization of medications especially antibiotics in dentistry. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the frequency of antibiotic prescription for treating dental infections in children among dentists in teaching institutions of Karachi, Pakistan and whether they are adhering to the prescribed international guidelines. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in three private and two public colleges of Karachi. After taking written informed consent and checking the inclusion criteria, a total of 380 participants were interviewed using a pre-designed validated questionnaire which included demographic profile and clinical case scenarios. Data were entered and analyzed on SPSS version 20. Inferential analysis was performed using chi-square test. The significance level was set at 0.05. RESULTS: Of the 380 subjects, a majority (71.3%) treated 15 or less children per month (n = 271) while 28.7% of dentists (n = 109) treated more than 15 children per month. Overall adherence to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines was low from 26.1% to 44.2%. The difference between adherence of dentists with low and high volume of pediatric patients was significantly different for case scenarios 1, 3, 4 and 5 (p<0.001 for all) where dentists who treated 15 or less children per month were more likely to be adherent to standard antibiotic prescription guidelines than those who treated more than 15 children per month. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that majority of dentists, particularly dentists with high volume of pediatric patients lacked adherence to professional guidelines for prescribing antibiotics for treating dental infection in children. There seem to be a lack of harmony between the recommended professional guidelines and the antibiotic prescribing pattern of dentists. Regular updates and continuing medical education for the health professionals regarding comprehensible and specific professional guidelines may lead to improved adherence of antibiotics prescription amongst dentists.

COVID-19 and Dentistry: Prevention in Dental Practice, a Literature Review.

SARS-CoV-2 is a member of the family of coronaviruses. The first cases were recorded in Wuhan, China, between December 2019 and January 2020. Italy is one of the most affected countries in Europe. COVID-19 is a new challenge in modern dentistry. New guidelines are required in dental clinics to avoid contagion caused by cross-infections. A narrative review was performed using both primary sources, such as scientific articles and secondary ones, such as bibliographic indexes, web pages, and databases. The main search engines were PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar. Twelve articles were selected to develop the bibliographic review by applying pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Precautionary measures should be applied to control COVID-19 in clinical practice. Several authors have highlighted the importance of telephone triage and/or clinic questionnaires, body temperature measurement, usage of personal protective equipment, surface disinfection with ethanol between 62% and 71%, high-speed instruments equipped with an anti-retraction system, four-handed work, and large-volume cannulas for aspiration. Clinically, the use of a rubber dam is essential. FFP2 (or N95) and FFP3 respirators, if compared to surgical masks, provide greater protection for health workers against viral respiratory infections. Further accurate studies are needed to confirm this.

The Perception of COVID-19 among Italian Dentists: An Orthodontic Point of View.

COVID-19 has severely impacted dentists, who are at a great risk of infection. This study aimed to investigate if dentists are anxious about returning to their daily activities, and what the perception of the risk is for dentists and orthodontists regarding orthodontic procedures. An online questionnaire, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4), was sent to Italian dentists during the final days of the lockdown with items about anxiety, fear, distress, perceived risk for operators, and concerns about orthodontic patients caused by working during the COVID-19 outbreak. Data were analyzed with a chi-square test and logistic regression analysis. The level of significance was set as p < 0.05. A total of 349 dentists completed the survey, including 183 orthodontists. Returning to their daily work activity was a source of anxiety for 192 participants and this was associated with the level of distress (odds ratio (OR) = 3.7; p < 0.001). Most of the orthodontists (67.6%) thought that they would increase the number of working hours during the week (OR = 1.8; p = 0.007). Italian dentists were mostly scared to return to their daily activities because they considered their jobs a high risk to them and their families. Dentists with an exclusive/prevailing orthodontic activity were forced to increase their working day during the week.