ASSESSMENT OF AWARENESS, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF PLAQUE ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL MEASURES IN PATIENTS AMONG DENTISTS IN INDIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Dr. Akshada Gandhi*, Dr. Janak Kapadia and Dr. Surekha Bhedasgaonkar

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Caries and periodontal disease are plaque induced and preventable. Prevention and management of periodontal disease can be adequately achieved if patient acts a co-therapist with early participation which can be reinforced when the dentist and the auxiliaries are convinced of the value of effective plaque control. Background: This study aims to assess the awareness, attitude and practice of plaque assessment and control measures in patients among the dentists in India. Methodology: A pre-tested questionnaire of 25 questions was circulated through online mode to assess demography, awareness and practice of plaque evaluation and control by the dentists. Comparison and analysis was based on area of practice and years of experience. Results: 96.4% study population evaluated the level of plaque in patient during first appointment while 88.8% evaluated oral hygiene practices. Chemical plaque control was always recommended by 26.4%. Conclusion: There is variation in practices of plaque evaluation, recommendation and acceptance of patients with years and area of practice.

Keywords: Assessment, Awareness, Evaluation, Feasibility, Motivation, Training.