KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES REGARDING ENDODONTIC TREATMENT DURING PREGNANCY AMONG INTERNS AND RESIDENT DENTISTS IN INDIA

Abstract

Introduction: Physiological changes and concerns for the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy necessitate a complex approach to dental care. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dental interns and postgraduate dental residents in India concerning endodontic treatment during pregnancy.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in India with 1289 resident dentists who treated pregnant patients in government and commercial dental clinics who filled out validated self-administered questionnaires. Participants' knowledge, opinions, and practical methods for managing pregnant patients and behavioural counselling were evaluated by a questionnaire. Following the computation of descriptive statistics, a significance level of 0.05 was applied.

Results: More than 80% of respondents agreed that addressing dental discomfort and infections is crucial in pregnant patients. With a preference for the second trimester (55.3%), 90.7% of respondents thought endodontic therapy was safe to receive while pregnant. Specialists' opinions on the safety of particular medications differed. Fetal safety concerns were voiced by 12.9% of respondents, with differences observed between specializations and genders. Of those who could perform root canal therapy on pregnant patients, 90.7% were willing.

Conclusion: There are substantial knowledge gaps even when dental residents demonstrate awareness of the dangers connected to endodontic therapy during pregnancy. To raise the bar for treatment, postgraduate training specifically designed to manage pregnant patients and updated protocols for procedures unique to each trimester is advised.