Farzam Shiri, ,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Pharmacies can serve as an appropriate setting for the provision of oral health care, including preventive services, early detection, and referrals. The present study aimed to assess the awareness, performance and oral health behaviors as well as self-perceived oral health among pharmacists and pharmacy staff in Isfahan.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 using a random sampling method across pharmacies in Isfahan. In total, 176 pharmacists and pharmacy staff completed a standard self-administered questionnaire in person, regarding their awareness, performance, and behaviors related to oral health, as well as their self- perceived oral health. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Spearman correlation coefficient in SPSS software version 27 (P<0.05).
Results: Oral health knowledge was rated as poor in 34 individuals (19.3%), moderate in 89 (50.6%), and good in 53 (30.1%). Pharmacists’ knowledge score was significantly higher than that of other pharmacy staff (P=0.002). The most commonly reported service provided to clients by participants was offering analgesics for pain relief (61.9%). While, less than half of the participants reported providing information on oral hygiene (36.9%) or referring clients to a dentist (40.9%). Oral health behaviors including brushing teeth at least twice a day (80.4%), regular use of fluoride toothpaste (97.2%), visiting a dentist during the past year (55.1%), and non smoking (67.0%) were favorable among most participants. However, flossing (50.6%) and frequent snacking (65.3%) were unfavorable in majority of individuals.
Conclusion: Considering the moderate level of oral health knowledge and the presence of some unfavorable behaviors such as insufficient use of dental floss and frequent snacking, it is recommended to implement educational programs to improve knowledge and promote positive oral health behaviors
Vahid Herandi, Fahimeh Rashidi Maybodi, Fatemeh Karamad,
Volume 39, Issue 0 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Given the rapid growth of digital technologies in dentistry, assessing dentists’ awareness and attitudes toward this transformation is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and attitudes of general dentists in Yazd-Iran toward digital dentistry in 2025.
Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 135 general dentists in Yazd-Iran were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via an online questionnaire including demographic information and the questions related to awareness and attitude. Dat were analyzed using SPSS version 27 and the statistical analysis tests were Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Chi-square to examine the variables.
Results: A total of 59 men and 76 women with a mean age of 31.92 ± 7.87 years participated in the study. The mean knowledge score was 7.76 ± 2.77 out of 12. Higher knowledge and a more positive attitude were significantly associated with older age, longer work experience, and male gender (P<0.05). Overall, 74.1% of participants were unaware of the well-known CAD/CAM system, 74.8% were unfamiliar with digital implant software, and 60% did not have adequate knowledge of correct application of intraoral scanners. While, 81.5% reported an overall positive attitude, only 11.9% considered their knowledge to be aligned with modern digital technologies.
Conclusion: General dentists demonstrated a moderate level of awareness and the existing knowledge gaps warrant greater attention in both undergraduate and continuing education. Enhancing knowledge among specific groups-such as younger, less experienced, and female dentists—is essential. Significant differences in attitudes were observed according to the age, gender, and years of professional experience.
