Assessment Of Dentist’s Knowledge, Attitudes, And Professional Behavior Regarding Silver Diamine Fluoride: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Background:   Dental caries is a major public health problem and is handled through either treatment or prevention. Unlike other fluoride based caries preventive agents, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) can simultaneously prevent and arrest coronal and root dentine caries. Aim and Objectives:  To assess dentist’s Knowledge, Attitudes, and Professional Behavior regarding SDF. Methods: A cross- sectional, online based survey was conducted on voluntary dental professionals. Distribution of self-structured questionnaire was done through convenience sampling technique. Chi square test was used to analyze the data. Results:  A total of 290 dentists completed the survey. About 15.9 % participants had Knowledge regarding SDF in dentistry. The majority of respondents showed a positive Attitude toward SDF by accepting it as a good alternative treatment for children with behavioral problems or medical issues (46.2%).  However, 41% expect that use of SDF increase in the future. Conclusion: Results suggested that the majority of respondents were lacking in Knowledge regarding usage of SDF in dentistry.