KNOWLEDGE ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE BASED SURVEY ABOUT VARIATIONS IN ROOT CANAL ANATOMY IN ENDODONTICS

Abstract

One of the main reasons for failure of root canal treatment is the incomplete disinfection of the root canal system. This is due to the fact that the root canal systems are very complex exhibiting numerous variations. Variations exist in the number of roots, number of canals, anatomy of canals or pulp cavity, etc. The clinician must have adequate knowledge about these variations before attempting RCT procedure. The aim of this survey was to assess the knowledge attitude and practice of variations of root canal anatomy by general dentists. After a thorough search of previous literature, a 15 question questionnaire was formulated. Separate questions for knowledge, attitude and practice were framed. The questionnaire was distributed to general dental practitioners via google forms, personal emails and other online modes. Responses obtained were statistically analyzed using SPSS software (Descriptive Statistics). A total of 186 responses were obtained. Chi square test was applied to determine an association between the frequency and distribution of various responses for each question based on the experience of the practitioner. A statistically significant difference was observed (p<0.05), proving that the responses differed with experience of the practitioner.. Most general dentists are aware of the variations present in maxillary first molars. But their knowledge about other teeth is quite limited. Also the attitude and practice is quite poor. In conclusion, the knowledge of general dentists with respect to variations in root canal anatomy
is satisfactory but attitude and practice is quite poor.