Evaluation of Dentists' Knowledge on Dental Management in Hemodialysis Patients

INTRODUCTION:To determine knowledge levels of dentists, dental specialists, and dental students regarding dental approaches in hemodialysis patients.METHODS: Recommendations for dental treatment of hemodialysis patients were identified by reviewing literature and guidelines from official organizations.Recommendations were translated from English to Turkish, reviewed, and revised by a committee.Survey containing eight questions was administered to 20 dentists, and feedback was collected.Survey was distributed digitally to participants as a link, demographic characteristics and education levels were recorded.Data were evaluated using descriptive analyses and chi-square test (p<0.05).RESULTS: 314 individuals participated, including 193 general dentists, 39 specialists, and 82 dental students.The highest correct answers were for bleeding problems (87.9%) and infectious disease risk (87.3%).The most incorrect answers were on premedication (31.2%) and local anesthetic choice (58.3%).Students answered the prophylaxis question correctly more often than dentists and specialists (p=0.000),while dentists and specialists answered the infectious disease risk questions more accurately than students (p=0.009).CONCLUSION: Dental curriculum and postgraduate programs should include current information on treating hemodialysis patients, and general dentists should participate in periodic training sessions.