Background: White spot lesions (WSLs) result from the demineralization of enamel due to the progression of subsurface caries lesions. These lesions can be treated by enhancing remineralization through improved oral hygiene or fluoridation. Resin infiltration (RI) involves creating a porous surface, allowing low-viscosity resin to infiltrate the body of the lesion, and forming a diffusion barrier within the tooth. There is a lack of data on the knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding this approach in managing WSL. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of dentists and dental interns toward the use of RI for the treatment of WSL.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled general practitioners and dental interns. The study was conducted from 2021 to 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and attitudes of participants. The collected data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software.
Results: Among 512 participants, 59.4% were females, 76.8% were Saudis, and 46.3% were working in government sectors. A total of 47.9% rated their knowledge as poor. The overall level of knowledge was low among 325 participants (63.5%). The level of knowledge was significantly affected by gender (p = 0.0001), nationality (p = 0.001), qualification (p = 0.03), work experience (p = 0.0001), and self-rated knowledge (p = 0.003).
Conclusion: There was a low level of knowledge regarding RI for the treatment of WSL, and an inadequate attitude was observed among participants. Factors affecting the knowledge level included gender, nationality, qualification, work experience, and self-assessment of knowledge.
Key words: Knowledge, attitude, dentists, treatment, white spot lesions
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