The dentists' attitudes and knowledge level about teething gels

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate a group of Turkish dentists' attitudes and level of knowledge about teething gels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire consisting of three parts and twenty questions was sent to dentists (n=1829) whose contact information could be reached. Separate categories were created for ingredients, dosage, and side effects of each prescribed teething gel. The percentages of the knowledge level of the dentists were calculated considering all prescribed gels. RESULTS: A total of 484 dentists were included in the study. Approximately half of the dentists (51.2%) participating in the study reported that they prescribed at least one teething gel per month. The most commonly prescribed teething gels were lidocaine-based gels (70.9%), followed by hyaluronic acid-based (61.4%) and herbal-based gels (36%). The medians of the knowledge level of dentists about active ingredients, dosage, and side effects of teething gels were 50%, 25%, and 20%, respectively. Dentists with more years in the profession have more knowledge about the active ingredient and side effects of gels than those who are newer in the profession (p<0.05). Dentists with the aged between 20-30 years had more knowledge about the dosage of gels (p<0.05). It was found that the knowledge level of pediatric dentists and oral surgeons about the side effects of gels was higher than other branches. (p<0.05). The knowledge level about teething gels of non-specialist dentists was significantly lower than specialists (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, it was found that dentists had insufficient knowledge about teething gels. Dentists need more education to prevent misuse and uncontrolled use of these gels.