Knowledge, attitude and practice of dentists towards prescribing chlorhexidine mouthwash in satara district, Maharashtra

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of the study is to establish dentist’s knowledge about Chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes and their short-term as well as long-term side effects, their attitude towards the use of mouthwashes and their use in various treatment modalities.

Methods: A pre-tested validated questionnaire of 15 multiple choice questions was circulated as a google form amongst dentists in Satara district. A total of 258 dentists participated in the study. The first section contained questions on respondent’s socio demographic characteristics. The second section contained questions regarding knowledge, attitude, and practice of chlorhexidine mouthwash. The filled questionnaire was analysed by using SPSS 20.0 software.

Results: Different concentrations of CHX mouthwash were prescribed routinely only by 13.4% of respondents. A total of 74.6% dentists positively believed that CHX mouthwash reduces bacterial and viral load in COVID-19 affected patients. About 40.3% believe that the persistent use of CHX mouthwash causes anti-microbial resistance.

Conclusions: The present study shows an overall adequate knowledge and awareness on chlorhexidine prescription and its use amongst dentists. Certain aspects like different concentrations of mouthwash, anti-discoloration systems, long term prescription of CHX elicited varied responses from the subjects. Therefore, there is a

need for constant enhancement of knowledge regarding the usage of CHX to keep the dentists updated and implement the same in their clinical practice.