Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Dentists and Dental Assistants about HIV Infection and Dentists’ Knowledge of Oral Manifestations of HIV

Background: HIV/AIDS can be transmitted in healthcare settings including dentistry. Therefore, specific strategies are necessary to prevent its spread. This study aims to examine the for Knowledge Attitude and Practice of dentists and dental assistants regarding HIV infection and their knowledge of the oral manifestations of AIDS in public and private dental centers in Shahrekord. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2021 in Shahrekord, Iran, involving 108 dentists and 104 dental assistants through a census sampling method. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing knowledge, attitude, and performance regarding HIV/AIDS, as well as awareness of oral manifestations. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 20 Results: According to the results, the mean scores for Knowledge Attitude and Practice of dentists were 16.18 ± 2.06, 53.73 ± 7.19, 70.04 ± 5.13, respectively. The average knowledge, attitude, and practice scores for dental assistants were 14.77 ± 2.1, 50.2±6.10, and 62.96 ± 5.11. There was no significant relationship between the knowledge and practice of dentists and dental assistants regarding HIV infection.) P > 0.05(. However, there was a significant relationship between dentists' knowledge of HIV infection and their knowledge of oral AIDS manifestations (p < 0.001). Conversely, no significant relationship was found between dentists' attitudes and practice and knowledge of oral AIDS manifestations (p < 0.05). Among the demographic data, only the age and work experience of dentists with knowledge of AIDS were significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The knowledge of dentists and dental assistants regarding AIDS is moderate, emphasizing the need for continuous training. Dentists scored higher in knowledge, attitude, and practice compared to dental assistants. However, the lack of a significant relationship between knowledge and practice suggests that theoretical education alone is insufficient, highlighting the importance of practical training.