EXPLORING DENTISTS' KNOWLEDGE AND PERSPECTIVES ON ORALBIOPSIES AT BAQAI DENTAL COLLEGE, KARACHI

Background: Oral biopsy is an essential diagnostic tool for identifying a range of oral lesions, from benign conditions to malignancies. Despite its significance, gaps in knowledge and practice among dentists may hinder its effective utilization, impacting patient outcomes. Objectives: To evaluate dentists' knowledge, clinical practices, and perceptions regarding oral biopsy procedures and their role in diagnosing oral lesions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among dental surgeons at Baqai Dental College in Karachi, where a validated questionnaire was distributed to 196 dental professionals of various designations. The questionnaire included 22 questions (8 open-ended and 14 close-ended) divided into two sections. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 software. Results: The study assessed participants' knowledge regarding biopsies for diagnosing suspicious oral lesions. Out of 196 participants, 71 were house officers, 59 were lecturers, 20 senior lecturers, and 46 assistant/associate professors. The results showed that 96% of general dental practitioners (GDPs) believed biopsies were necessary for such diagnoses, with some considering them essential for premalignant, malignant, and cystic lesions, while others believed they were only necessary for premalignant and malignant lesions. About 43% of participants were familiar with all biopsy methods. Reasons for not performing biopsies included difficulty in handling, lack of experience, decreased self-confidence, and insufficient patient compliance. Nearly all dentists acknowledged the need to improve their knowledge of oral lesions and biopsy techniques. Conclusion: The study participants were aware of oral screening and biopsy procedures but hesitant to perform them. This suggests that general dental practitioners (GDPs) would benefit from dental education programs focused on oral precancerous and cancer detection, as well as screening and diagnostic techniques.