Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Irrigation Protocols among Dental Professionals in Primary Care in Qatar: A Cross-Sectional Survey
TL;DR
Dental professionals in Qatar demonstrated moderate adherence to the recommended irrigation protocols, with practitioners higher CPD engagement being more likely to comply and targeted training and CPD initiatives may enhance adherence across all groups.
Abstract
Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of irrigation protocols among dental professionals working in primary healthcare settings in Qatar and to identify predictors of adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 209 eligible dental professionals at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC). A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to capture demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the responses, while chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression were used to identify the predictors of adherence. Results: Of 209 eligible professionals, 111 responded (53.1%). The majority were aged 45–54 years (48.6%), and general dentists comprised the largest group (52.3%). Sodium hypochlorite was the primary irrigant for 62.2% of respondents, and 65.8% reported altering irrigant choice by diagnosis. Sequential irrigation after each instrument was reported by 80.2%. Logistic regression revealed that clinical role (endodontists/Restorative dentist: OR 1.62, p = 0.02), years of experience (>20 years: OR 1.48, p = 0.01), and CPD hours (>20 hours: OR 1.35, p = 0.02) were significant predictors of adherence, while age and gender were not. Conclusion: Dental professionals in Qatar demonstrated moderate adherence to the recommended irrigation protocols, with practitioners higher CPD engagement being more likely to comply. Targeted training and CPD initiatives may enhance adherence across all groups.