ASSESSMENT OF AWARENESS ABOUT FIXED PARTIAL DENTURE AMONG UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Objective: Fundamentals of fixed prosthodontics are included in undergraduate curriculum in dental colleges. Due to rapid advancements and increased patient expectations, not only fundamentals but technical and laboratory skills and use of current developments of dental materials is also of vital importance. The aim of this study is to assess awareness about fixed partial dentures among undergraduate dental students and to compare the knowledge about fixed partial denture among different undergraduate classes.

Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted among dental students of watim dental college Rawalpindi in 2022. Using a pre-structured questionnaire data was collected from 264 students of different academic years. The questionnaire consisted of 10 questions about the components, indications, advantages, types and cleaning methods for fixed partial dentures. The responses recorded were tabulated and analyzed using SPSS version 17 with descriptive statistics. Difference with P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Out of 264 students, 211(79.9%) were females and 53(20.1%) were males. 75.8% of students were aware about use, 82.2% about type of prosthesis. 65.5% of students were aware of components of fixed partial dentures.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that the dental students displayed an acceptable level of knowledge in FPDs. However, there was lack of knowledge about the detailed design features. In order to further enhance the knowledge and awareness about fixed prosthesis, there should be better clinical exposure to all the academic years.