Periodontal knowledge and awareness among South Indian medical professionals: A questionnaire-based survey

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of periodontal disease, its etiology and management among medical professionals. Materials and Methods: The 300 medical professionals included in this questionnaire-based survey comprised of doctors from government medical colleges and consultants in various specialties in private hospitals and clinics. The participants comprised of equal numbers of subjects in the medical profession including interns, postgraduates, and consultants. Results: The results from the questionnaire-based survey indicated that knowledge about periodontal terminologies was high among medical professionals. However, mixed response was elicited regarding the etiology, treatment, and current trends in periodontal practice. Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge of periodontal terminologies, the etiopathogenesis, treatment options and the current therapeutic trends amongst medical professionals can greatly contribute towards motivating patients for treatment and also provide necessary referrals.