Evaluation of the knowledge and use of ART by dentists at the 15th Regional Health Care Center of the State of Paraná

Abstract

The Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) has proven successful in dental caries control. However, cleaning of the cavity, handling and protection of the material affect the success. The goal of this study was to evaluate the attitudes and knowledge of dental surgeons (DS), who work in the public service, about the ART. The DS working at the 15^th Regional Health Care Center of the state of Paraná were invited to answer a questionnaire. Data were analyzed through absolute and percentage distribution, and by Fisher’s Exact Test (p < 0.005). Out of 213 sent, 107 questionnaires were returned. More than half of DS considered insufficient their knowledge about ART. There was a significant association between the knowledge on the strategy and academic degrees (p < 0.05). Only 14.1% affirmed to perform cavity cleaning with polyacrylic acid and 26.1% stated they protect the surface of the material. Among the respondents, 54.2% never received training on ART and 86.9% showed interest in a training for this procedure. It can be concluded that the lack of technical and scientific knowledge of DS makes it difficult to use ART in the clinical routine, and training on this procedure is necessary for efficient use in the public service.