Knowledge, attitude and practice on use of magnification in dentistry among dental students

Abstract

Introduction : Magnification in general is considered one of the important revolutions in science, and specifically in dentistry. This Revolution allowed scientists to undertake main studies in the natural world and accelerate progress in the fields. Magnification also helps in the maintenance of ergonomic work posture in dentistry. The aim of this study was to assess the awareness, attitude, knowledge and practice of dental students towards use of magnification in dentistry. Materials and Method : The Study setting used here is an online setting. The population taken for this study is 100 dental students from Tamil Nadu . The survey is conducted using a standardised questionnaire. Data was collected and tabulated. The data collection software used is SPSS software.The results of this study in terms of individual behavior and awareness of dental students towards use of magnification in dentistry are comparable with similar studies conducted in other countries. The MCQ type questions are prepared with choices with the help of google forms,and all the questions were shared. For this research 10 self structured questionnaires were created. Results: In the current study the questionnaire was circulated on the basis of knowledge, attitude and practice. The data was collected and statistically analysed. 52% of the participants were female and 48% of the participants were male (Figure1). Majority of participants (70%) agreed that use of magnification devices in dentistry enhances visualization and improves ergonomics. (Figure 2).14% of the participants agreed that Dental procedures have become complicated and hence the use of magnification in dentistry has attained a significant position. The analysis showed that the level of awareness among males and females was similar. Chi square value= 1.432; P value= 0.430 ( p>0.05, hence statistically significant). Conclusion: The students participating in the study had adequate knowledge but the attitude and practice score were comparatively less. The recent developments in magnification work environments are a positive step towards operator comfort, but new ergonomic equipment has limited value without the critical analysis of current practice patterns.