Role of Evidence Based Dentistry in Day to Day Dental Practice-Perception of Postgraduate Dental Students and Clinical Practitioners - KAP Study

Aim: To assess and compare the knowledge, attitude and practice of dental practitioners and dental postgraduate students towards the practice of evidence based dentistry (EBD).

Methodology: A random sample of 225 dental practitioners and postgraduate students were involved in the study. Participation was voluntary. A cross-sectional survey with self administered questionnaire was done. The questionnaire was loosely based on 3 categories; namely knowledge, attitude and practice. All questionnaire forms were distributed and collected by mail. Results were statistically evaluated using a t test.

Results: Most of the general practitioners seem to be less familiar with the concept of Evidence Based Dentistry (EBD). The trend is more predominant with BDS practitioners. Despite majority of the participants being MDS or postgraduate students, only 28.62% of the participants were thorough with the concept of EBD with 68.9% of the participants having a fair idea about it. Among these practitioners, majorities are resorting to help and advices from friends or colleagues. 91.1% of the respondents have shown interest in improvising their knowledge by practicing evidence based dentistry.

Conclusions: EBD is not a new concept but still most of the dentists are not familiar with. Majority of the dentists are even unaware of the terms used in EBD. Educational program regarding EBD targeted at general dentist population should be encouraged to enhance their knowledge and use of EBD in everyday practice.