AWARENESS ABOUT HOT TOOTH AND ITS MANAGEMENT AMONG DENTAL PRACTITIONERS- A QUESTIONNAIRE BASED SURVEY

Abstract

Objective: To determine the awareness of hot tooth and its management among dental practitioners.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 131 participants were recruited. Inclusion criteria included qualified dentists with a BDS qualification, trainees in operative dentistry, endodontists, dental professionals in Pakistan, and individuals aged 21 to 60 years. Exclusion criteria included trainees of other dental specialties not currently practicing, dental technicians, quacks, and undergraduate students. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire shared via WhatsApp and email. Chi-square/Fisher exact test employed to compare awareness levels across different academic qualifications.

Results: The mean age was 35.85±6.12 years and 61 females (46.56%) and 70 males (53.44%). General dental practitioners made up the largest group (62, 47.33%), followed by trainees (52, 39.69%) and endodontists (17, 12.98%). Most participants had 1 to 4 years of experience (96, 73.28%). Awareness of the term "hot tooth" was high, with 112 (85.50%) participants familiar with it. In maxillary anesthesia, infiltration was the predominant technique (83.97%). For mandibular anesthesia, the inferior alveolar nerve block was most common (79.39%). Mandibular molars were identified as the most difficult teeth to anesthetize (81.68%). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were the preferred medication for managing a hot tooth (90.84%). Significant differences in awareness and management practices were observed across different qualification levels.

Conclusion: Awareness of hot tooth and its management varies significantly among dental practitioners, with higher awareness and specific management techniques more prevalent among endodontists compared to general dental practitioners and trainees