Maryland Dentists’ Knowledge of Oral Cancer Risk Factors and Diagnostic Procedures

Abstract

A questionnaire was mailed to 800 Maryland general practice dentists to assess their knowledge of risk factors and diagnostic procedures for oral cancer. Two indices were created based on 14 questions on knowledge of oral cancer risk factors and 9 questions on oral cancer diagnostic procedures. Data were analyzed statistically and evaluated with an alpha level of 0.05. Nearly all respondents identified use of tobacco, prior oral cancer lesions, and use of alcohol as risk factors. However, only 36% correctly identified that poor-fitting dentures are not a risk factor and 58% that poor oral hygiene is not a risk factor. Nearly 87% knew how to examine the tongue and surrounding areas, and 32% identified erythroplakia and leukoplakia as conditions associated with oral cancer. Appropriate knowledge about risk factors and diagnostic procedures is essential for dentists to counsel their patients and perform appropriate oral cancer examinations.