Abstract
Introduction: Clear aligners are emerging as a potential treatment option in the field of Orthodontics. General dentists are usually the first ones to determine the Orthodontic needs of the patient. With an increasing demand for aligners in daily practice; it is vital for dental students/ future practitioners to know about the basics of clear aligner therapy.
Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, awareness and attitude regarding CAT among BDS Interns.
Materials and Methods: A self-designed online questionnaire of 20 questions was designed and distributed among 378 BDS Interns via WhatsApp messenger and email.
Results: The majority of participants were aware of the advantages of Clear Aligner Therapy over fixed appliances. However, most lacked knowledge regarding patient instructions, like wearing time, cleaning methods, etc. There was less awareness about the types of tooth movements possible with CAT, factors influencing tooth movement, associated auxiliaries, etc.
Conclusion: It is important for general dentists to be aware of the various treatment modalities and the associated indications, pros, cons and patient instructions. Thus, there is need for addition of more details regarding advances like Aligners in the curriculum to improve the knowledge, awareness and attitude of emerging dentists.
Publisher
Athenaeum Scientific Publishers
Subject
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering