EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF DENTAL PRACTITIONERS TOWARD MANAGEMENT OF OPEN APEX WITH REGENERATIVE ENDODONTICS THERAPY IN KSA

Abstract

Background: Regenerative endodontics is an exciting advancement in our field that provides an alternative treatment option for permanent teeth with underdeveloped root apex. It promotes the growth of new blood vessels, nerve fibers, and further root development. The main goal of pulp therapy is to preserve the tooth's structure and functionality by maintaining the vitality of the pulp. This is especially important for the continuous growth of roots and closure of the apex in developing permanent teeth. However, there is a lack of reliable statistics on the knowledge and attitudes of dentists from different disciplines regarding regenerative endodontics and its clinical application. Furthermore, there have been limited studies conducted on this topic, particularly in Saudi Arabia, and earlier studies have produced inconsistent findings.

Objectives: The aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude among dental practitioners in KSA regarding regenerative endodontics in the management of open apex.

Methodology: A cross‐sectional questionnaire study was conducted for a period of two months among all dental practitioners plus dental interns and undergraduate students in their clinical years. The questionnaire consisted of four parts: demographic information, knowledge questions, ethical opinions/beliefs, and information regarding clinical practice. The answers were tabulated and statistically analyzed.

Results: The total sample consisted of 391 participants, with 45.3% being male and 54.7% females. As Regard knowledge, attitude and practice score, there were 61.4% classified as having good knowledge, 22.3% had fair knowledge, and 16.4% had poor knowledge. Regarding attitude, the majority (81.3%) exhibited a positive attitude, with 17.4% being neutral and only 1.3% showing a negative attitude. In practice, 26.3% demonstrated positive practices, 17.6% had neutral practices, and a significant portion (56.0%) displayed negative practices. Concerning the relation of KAP score and sociodemographic characteristics, there was a statistically significant relation between gender and both knowledge and practice levels (p value < 0.05) while no significant relation found between gender and attitude. Conclusion: In conclusion, Knowledge and attitude were fair with 61.4% represented good knowledge and 81.3% exhibited positive attitude while practice still needs improvement and training with 56% exhibited negative practice. Additionally, efforts should be made to raise awareness and promote the benefits of regenerative endodontics therapy in