Attitude of dental students and clinicians in dentistry toward knowledge of human anatomy for routine clinical practice

Abstract

Introduction: Dentistry is a surgical field that requires an in-depth knowledge of the human body, especially the anatomy of the head, face, and neck region, to understand various pathologies encountered in clinics. Human anatomy is an integral part of dental surgery courses worldwide. Right from diagnosis to the point of treatment, thorough knowledge of human anatomy is critical. Thus, it is important to understand the link between preclinical anatomical knowledge and dentistry and implement it in clinical practice. Unfortunately, anatomy is considered a preclinical subject and is neglected by students and faculty. The following study aimed to assess and understand the attitude of dental students and dental practitioners toward knowledge of human anatomy for routine clinical practice. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 187 dental students and dental clinicians of a reputed Dental College situated in the Navi Mumbai Region. Results: More than 85% of respondents had a liking toward anatomical dissections. More than 80% of the respondents felt that the knowledge of human anatomy is a prerequisite for practicing clinical dentistry. Conclusion: In the present study, it was found that anatomy is a prerequisite for routine clinical dentistry. Although newer technologies are now being incorporated into the system, they seem to supplement the traditional cadaveric methods of dissection. However, there is a need for more in-depth implementation of horizontal and vertical integration into the dental curriculum to produce more clinically competent dental surgeons.