Publication: Specialist Periodontal Referral Knowledge, Attitude and Practice by General Dental Practitioner in Nepal
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
To enhance the referral process, it is essential for the patient, referring practitioner,
and specialist to establish effective communication and ensure they are well-
informed and educated about each other’s requirements.
Objective
To assess the knowledge and attitude of general dental practitioners towards
specialist periodontal referral.
Method
This cross-sectional study was carried out for 6 months from October 2022 to
April 2023 using a self-administered questionnaire by general dental practitioners
registered in Nepal Medical Council. Knowledge and attitude about periodontics,
various diseases and referral to specialist for special treatment were analyzed.
Result
Total of 238 General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) participated in this web-based
questionnaire survey. Majority of general dental practitioners (GDPs) reported that
they always performed full-mouth and subgingival scaling (193, 81.09%), providing
advice on proper brushing techniques (205, 86.13%), advising patients to stop
harmful habits (212, 89.07%), and offering diet counseling (122, 51.26%) for patients
displaying signs of gingival or periodontal diseases. Majority of GDPs also indicated
that they occasionally consult a periodontist for specific periodontal problems, such
as the presence of periodontal pockets (143, 60.084%), mobile teeth (150, 63.025%),
gingival enlargement (145, 60.924%), periodontal abscess (146, 61.344%), and
gingival recession (149, 62.605%).
Conclusion
General dental practitioners play a crucial role as the primary point of contact for
patients seeking dental treatment. The periodontal health of the general population
largely depends on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of GDPs.
KEY WORDS
General dental practitioner, Periodontal referral, Periodontist
Description
Rijal AH,1 Humagain M,1 Lamichhane S,1 Ghimire P2
1Department of Periodontology and Oral Implantology
Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences
Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal
2Dental Department, Methinkot Hospital
Kavre, Nepal
Keywords
General dental practitioner, Periodontal referral, Periodontist