KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE OF PRE PRACTITIONERS, INTERNS, POSTGRADUATES AND DENTAL EDUCATORS TOWARDS THE DIGITALIZATION OF OPD INDENTAL SCHOOLS - A MULTI CENTRIC QUESTIONNAIRE BASED STUDY

Background:Digitalization in dental outpatient departments (OPDs) has the potential to significantly improve dental ducation and patient care. However, research on the awareness, proficiency, and attitudes towards digital tools among dental students and educators is limited. This study examines the impact of digitalization in dental OPDs, focusing on how factors such as gender, educational status, and college affiliation influence perceptions and familiarity with digital tools. Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional study involved dental students and educators from various dental colleges of the newly formed state of Andhra Pradesh. Data was collected through structured questionnaires assessing awareness, proficiency, and attitudes toward digitalization in OPDs. Statistical analysis, including Chi-Square tests, were conducted to explore associations between educational status, gender, and perceptions of digital tools. The sample included final BDS students, interns, postgraduates, and dental educators. Results:The findings indicated that 91.3% of participants were aware of digitalization, and 52.0% had received training in digital tools. Educational status was significantly associated with proficiency, with postgraduates and educators showing higher expertise in using digital tools. Gender differences were evident, with females more likely to view digitalization positively, especially in terms of enhancing patient care and follow-up. Moreover, significant differences were observed across the colleges regarding the extent of digital tool training, indicating variability in institutional approaches to digital education. Conclusion:The study underscores the importance of integrating digital tools in dental education and practice. It reveals the need for targeted digital training programs that consider educational status, gender, and institutional factors. The results suggest that dental schools should standardize digital education to ensure all students and educators are adequately prepared for the evolving digital landscape in dentistry.