EC Dental Science

Aim of the Study: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the undergraduate dental curriculum on dental graduates’ knowledge of anterior dental esthetics and the impact of clinical experience on this knowledge. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among BDS interns, general dentists, and specialists in Gorakhpur district. The results showed that less than half (49.6%) of the dentists had satisfactory knowledge of gingival esthetics, while 91.9% had satisfactory knowledge of anterior dental esthetics. Dentists with more than 10 years of clinical experience had better knowledge of gingival esthetics.

Introduction: The increasing awareness of the general population about their appearance demands more esthetic results from dentists. Esthetics is a crucial aspect of dentistry, influencing all major dental specialties. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of anterior dental esthetics among dental graduates and the impact of clinical experience on this knowledge.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among BDS interns, general dentists, and specialists in Gorakhpur district. A questionnaire with 30 questions was used to assess knowledge of gingival and dental esthetics. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, and the chi-square test was applied to identify associations between variables.

Results: The study found that: • 49.6% of dentists had satisfactory knowledge of gingival esthetics, while 91.9% had satisfactory knowledge of anterior dental esthetics. • Dentists from prosthodontic, restorative, and periodontic specialties showed better knowledge of gingival esthetics (76.1%) compared to other groups. • Practitioners with more than 10 years of clinical experience had better knowledge of gingival esthetics.

Discussion: The study highlights the need for improvement in the undergraduate dental curriculum and continuing dental education to enhance clinical skills and professional excellence. Experience and knowledge aid in deeper interpretation of problems and better judgement skills.

Conclusion: The undergraduate curriculum should be designed and taught with consideration of the needs and demands of society. Experience and knowledge are essential for better clinical reasoning and esthetic outcomes.

Clinical Implications: The survey was conducted amongst general dentists and specialists in PIDS Gorakhpur, categorized according to qualifications and experience, to emphasize the importance of improvement in undergraduate dental curriculum and encourage continuing dental education in all fields of dentistry. The topic of esthetics was selected as it correlates to all major fields of dentistry.

Keywords:Esthetics; Dental; Continuing Dental Education; Over Bite; Knowledge; Gingiva

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