NANOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATION IN DENTISTRY: A SURVEY AT DOW UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES

Abstract

Nanotechnology concerns a field of applied science which deals with the control of matter on the molecular level in scales smaller than 1?m. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to evaluate awareness on nanotechnology application in dentistry at Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS). A questionnaire with 18 close-ended questions and one open ended question was devised and distributed. Total of 100 questionnaires were distributed and 88 proper replies were selected. Out of these 88 participants, 65% were under graduates, 25% were Graduates and 10% were Post Graduates. Almost half of the participants were having some awareness on Nano technology and remaining were not confident. Mostly believed in the application of Nano technology in dentistry, however, they were not using Nano technology in practice. Only fewer people gave correct answer regarding Nano particle size and very few had knowledge on Nano implants or Nano composites. Very few participants undergone any studies related to Nano dentistry and mostly were not aware of the progress being made in Nano dentistry. However, most of the participants recommended that inclusion of Nano dentistry as a subject needs consideration. Therefore, this survey reveals that there is lack of awareness on Nanotechnology application in dentistry. This study is just one step in that direction to emphasize on the need of realizing importance of nanotechnology in dentistry. It is anticipated that the future dentist will see nanotechnology as an inalienable part of practice and efforts will enable to cope well in advance at all levels.