Knowledge, perceptions, and practices of dental professionals and students regarding obturation in endodontic procedures: a nationwide cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to analyze dental professionals' and students' current understanding, attitudes, and usage of obturation trends in endodontic management.

METHODS

A national cross-sectional survey of 422 dental professionals and students was carried out using a structured questionnaire The questionnaire included 34 multiple-choice questions concerning demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices relevant to endodontic obturation. A combination of convenience and snowball sampling was used to recruit participants. The study applied descriptive statistics and the chi-square test of proportion with a significance threshold of  < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval for analysis to assess the participants' comprehension, attitudes, and use of obturation procedures.

RESULTS

The study comprised 422 participants, the majority of whom were females (68.0%) with an average age of 24.55 ± 3.31 years. Final-year students, interns, postgraduate students, dentistry faculty, and private practitioners were among those who took part. The majority of respondents (91.2%) correctly identified the goal of root canal obturation and identified Gutta Percha and Sealer as the standard obturation material (98.8%). Obturation has a significance in root canal treatment results, according to 81.0% of respondents. 64.5% were willing to explore new obturation methods, and 72.0% said they would use newer obturation materials or equipment if it was advantageous. In routine, lateral compaction was the primary obturation technique (73.2%), with just 4.0% using a rubber dam on a regular basis. Only a small percentage (11.1%) were happy with the present efficiency and predictability of obturation procedures, whereas 58.8% noted occasional difficulties in attaining proper root canal obturation. Documentation methods were subpar, with 43.6% regularly noting obturation techniques and materials in patients' records. A sizable proportion (58.5%) underwent retreatment operations for unsuccessful obturations, highlighting the need for improved obturation outcomes. Bioceramic sealer use and comprehension varied greatly (11.1% utilized it).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need of better knowledge and application of obturation trends in endodontics. Key findings include a desire for better materials, an understanding of the importance of obturation, and an openness to new ideas. The difficulties in getting optimal results underline the need of standardized education.