Conocimiento autopercibido con las actitudes frente al uso de fluoruro diamino de plata en los odontopediatras

Background: Self-perceived knowledge regarding the use of silver diamine fluoride is relevant for pediatric dentists. Objective: To correlate self-perceived knowledge with attitudes towards the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in pediatric dentists in Peru. Materials and methods: A validated self-reported questionnaire was published to 278 pediatric dentists in Peru. Covariates were collected on general characteristics, frequency, education, information and possible barriers regarding SDF. Results: 59.35% indicated having used silver diamine fluoride many times, while 13.67% never used the material. Moderate correlations were recorded between self-perceived knowledge of cavitated lesions with patient-related indications regarding the use of SDF, as well as self-perceived knowledge of non-cavitated lesions with patient-related indications regarding the use of SDF and with considerations for treatment outside the esthetic zone. Likewise, the use of SDF before restorative treatment was found to be related to considerations for treatment outside the esthetic zone. Conclusion: There is a moderate correlation between self-perceived knowledge and attitudes towards the use of SDF in Peruvian pediatric dentists. However, self-perceived knowledge should be reinforced to promote the use of this material, especially in the current context.