A Comparative Study Of Knowledge and Protocols Followed For Application Of Dentin Bonding Agents Amongst General Dental Practitioners and Endodontists In Chennai: A Questionnaire Based Survey

Introduction: Bonding plays an integral role in adhesion of the resin restoration to the tooth structure. Bonding to the denting possesses a greater challenge than bonding to the enamel. Following the correct protocol based of scientific evidence is hence highly imperative for the longevity of the restoration. The present study was conducted with the aim to compare and assess the protocols followed for application of dent in bonding agent amongst general dentists and Endodontists in Chennai. Materials and Method: The present cross-sectional survey was carried out amongst a total of 384 dental practitioners with an equal representation of general dentist and Endodontists in Chennai. Data was collected using a self-designed questionnaire and was assessed using descriptive statistical analysis and chi square test. Results: The study showed that 52.6% practitioners used rubber dam isolation only some times. Prior to restoration, 49.2% practitioners preferred complete removal of the smear layer. Etch and rinse total etch technique was the protocol followed by majority of the practitioners. Majority of the practitioners applied one or two layers of bonding agent and cured it for 20 seconds. There was lack of awareness regarding the intensity of the curing light amongst 33.6% practitioners. A majority of 94.3% practitioners felt the need for knowledge upgradation. Conclusion: The study concluded that while some dental practitioners aptly follow the bonding protocols, there is still the need to upgrade knowledge regarding the more recent adhesives and their bonding protocols.