Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Senior Dental Clinicians of a Dental College in Manila on the Use of International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS).

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to establish baseline data on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of senior dental clinicians, which may help determine areas of ICDAS that could be reinforced in teaching, training, and open opportunities for future studies in the Philippines.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive study design used a 4-part online questionnaire for senior dental clinicians from A.Y. 2020-2021 with 1-2 semesters of clinical experience. The survey tool, via Google Forms, gathered general information about the participants and KAP on ICDAS.

Results: Out of 29 participants, 19 (66%) had 1 semester, and 10 (34%) had 2 semesters of clinical experience. Overall mean score for knowledge was 76.1% and is considered "adequate". Five participants (17%) failed to reach the cut-off score of 70%. Based on the overall mean score, the participants were found to have a "positive" attitude. Two (7%) were categorized as "very negative". For the Practice component, all the clinicians showed "good practice."

Conclusion: The senior dental clinicians have demonstrated adequate knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice on ICDAS. A small percentage of the participants scored lower in their K (17%) and A (7%) scores. Even with good results, there is still a need to reinforce some of the basic ICDAS principles and more clinical exposure to reinforce the clinicians' skills in diagnosis and encouragement in using ICDAS.