Dentists’ knowledge of the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines: An Indian survey

ABSTRACT Aim: This study assessed awareness of the 2020 International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) guidelines among Indian dentists, examining associations with qualification, specialty, and years of practice. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 482 dentists in India using a 14-item assessment from the IADT guidelines. Participants were categorized by qualification (Bachelor of Dental Surgery [BDS] vs. Master of Dental Surgery [MDS]), specialty (conservative dentistry and endodontics vs. others), and years of practice (0–10, 10–20, and >20). Knowledge was classified as poor (0–6), moderate (7–11), or good (12–14). Statistical analyses included ANOVA, Chi-square, regression, and interaction analysis. Results: The mean knowledge score was 7.46/14. MDS specialists in endodontics significantly outperformed BDS graduates (mean difference = 2.13, Cohen’s d = 0.78; P < 0.001) and MDS in other specialties (mean difference = 2.69, Cohen’s d = 1.08; P < 0.001). Regression with interaction terms showed consistent superiority of endodontic specialists across experience levels (interaction P = 0.938), while knowledge among other specialties varied with years of practice (interaction P = 0.0004). After controlling for experience and interactions, both endodontic specialization (β =1.90, P < 0.001) and years of practice (β = −1.13, P < 0.001) independently predicted knowledge scores. Conclusions: Substantial knowledge deficits regarding IADT guidelines exist among Indian dentists. Specialty training in endodontics strongly predicted higher knowledge, whereas longer experience alone did not ensure awareness.