Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Avulsed Tooth and its Management among Dental Doctors

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge of dental doctors working in Public sector, Private hospitals and the clinics of Hyderabad regarding permanent tooth avulsion and its management. Methods: This cross sectional, descriptive study was carried out in 300 dentists working in Hyderabad from Sept 2015 to Nov 2015, with the collaboration of Faculty of Dentistry Lumhs Jamshoro. Questionnaire were distributed and after completion returned it to investigators. No personal identities were disclosed. Results: 300 dentists participated in our study 47% reported saliva as the storage medium for avulsed tooth 27% saline and 26°/0 reported milk as a preferred medium for storage. Participants reported that ideal extra alveolar period for avulsed tooth is 20 mints. Follow up with radiographic and clinical examination for one year (58.6%) according to our participants while (41.4%) reported 2 to 4 years follow up period (60.30%) reported that antibiotic prescription should be given. Conclusion: Moderate, relative lack of knowledge regarding duration of follow up after re implantation was observed. Scenario based questions related to permanent tooth avulsion and its management will enable more in testing dentist's knowledge. Key Words: Tooth avulsion. Knowledge, Dental Doctors, Management