Assessing Dentists' Knowledge, Perception, and Attitudes Towards Dental Caries and Systemic Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Aim: This study aimed to assess dentists' knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding dental caries and its relationship with systemic diseases in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to 590 practicing dentists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The survey included demographic questions, and 16 multiple-choice items focused on knowledge about dental caries and its associations with various systemic diseases. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed for data analysis. Results: A total of 203 responses were received. While 87.2% (n=177) of dentists acknowledged a general link between dental caries and systemic diseases, their knowledge of specific conditions varied. Diabetes was the most recognized condition at 95.6% (n=194), followed by rheumatoid arthritis at 57.1% (n=116) and systemic lupus erythematosus at 39.4% (n=80). Conversely, awareness of the connections between dental caries and male infertility was low (9.9%, n=20), as was knowledge of links to Alzheimer’s disease (28.1%, n=57) and digestive issues (24.6%, n=50). Conclusion: While dentists generally recognize the connection between oral health and general health, their understanding of specific systemic diseases associated with dental caries is limited. Enhancing awareness among dental professionals about these links is essential for improving overall patient health.
Source: Ain Shams Dental Journal
Authors: Naseeba Khouja, Roaa Abuljadayel
Institution: King Abdulaziz University
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409848440