The Awareness and Behavior Model of Fujian Dentists Toward Managing Hypertensive Patients

Abstract BACKGROUND To evaluate the awareness and behavior model of dentists in managing and treating hypertensive patients in Fujian Province. METHODS E-questionnaires were created and sent to dentists of all levels in Fujian Province (n = 610). The questionnaire included an assessment of attitude and behavior toward using a sphygmomanometer in the department of stomatology or clinic, as well as an assessment of the knowledge and ability of the stomatologist to manage and properly diagnose chronic diseases in patients with hypertension. RESULTS About 72.5% (442/610) of clinics were equipped with sphygmomanometers. However, only 1.3% (69/610) of dentists routinely measured the blood pressure of all patients prior to treatment. When patients reported a history of hypertension, 73.3% (447/610) of dentists would measure blood pressure, especially when performing invasive procedures such as tooth extraction surgery and implant surgery. If the patient’s blood pressure exceeds 180/100 mm Hg, 88.2% (538/610) of oral physicians would urgently refer the patient to the department of cardiology or superior hospital instead of routine elective dental treatment. About 8l.1% (495/610) of dentists believed that oral treatment of patients with hypertension had a risk of complications, About 54.1% (330/610) of the dentists preferred using local anesthetics without adrenaline to reduce the risk of anesthesia during treatment. CONCLUSIONS The dentists in Fujian Province do not pay enough attention to the proper management and diagnosis of hypertensive patients, which should be improved in clinical practice.