Abstract

A SURVEY OF THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS OF PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES IN ORTHODONTICS AMONG GENERAL DENTISTS AND NON-ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS

Arjun Chadha*, Shabeel Ahmed, Leena Garg, Apoorva, Yash, Chandrika Singh, Abha Singh and Bhavana Pathak

ABSTRACT

A questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and awareness in the field of Orthodontics amongst general dentists and non orthodontic specialists. The questionnaire consisted of fifteen (15) questions related to diagnosis and treatment planning in Orthodontics. It was distributed to one hundred (n= 100) general dentists and non - orthodontic specialists. After computing the data, we observed that the knowledge level among the study participants was moderately satisfying. Yet the need for more education of the dentists in certain areas of Orthodontics was perceived. It would help them to identify malocclusions in their patients and increase the awareness regarding dental disease and management among their patients. Knowledge regarding the duration of the retainers was observed to be inadequate. Improving the awareness amongst the practitioners in this area can help the patients with malocclusion to opt for orthodontic treatment at earlier stages and avoid complications later in the future. The study highlights on the need for more CDE (Continuing Dental Education) programs with active participation of general dentists and non orthodontic specialists to update them. Further, modifications in the education system at the under graduate level in dental colleges to impart more diagnostic concepts can benefit the students.

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