Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Dental Health Professionals Toward Management of Dental Waste in the Aseer Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Ab s t r Ac t Introduction: During the process of oral healthcare, infectious and toxic waste is produced within the clinics. Hence, dental professionals are required to know in depth about the proper management of dental waste in order to minimize the risks of cross-infection and the effects of toxins released into the environment affecting human health. Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dental health professionals (DHP) toward management of dental waste in the Aseer region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant (DHP) practicing in the Aseer region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A structured, close-ended and self-administered questionnaire consisting of 26 items along with the demographic information was distributed to the 450 DHP, and 431 responses were obtained and analyzed for the knowledge, attitude, and practices toward dental waste management. Results: The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores toward dental waste management were found to be 10.95 ± 1.98, 6.50 ± 1.07, and 3.07 ± 1.02, respectively. Female DHP and those working in the private dental clinics demonstrated a significantly higher knowledge, attitude, and practice scores compared to their counter parts. Knowledge of dental waste management differed significantly in different age groups, while the experience of DHP demonstrated significant differences in knowledge as well as the attitude of DHP toward dental waste management. Dental assistants demonstrated the highest knowledge, attitude, and practice scores of dental waste management compared to the dental hygienist and dentist. DHP showed a significant positive correlation between knowledge–attitude (r = 0.214, p = 0.000), knowledge–practice (r = 0.208, p = 0.000), and attitude–practice (r = 0.206, p = 0.000). Conclusion: DHP participated in this study demonstrated a high knowledge, positive attitude, and inadequate dental waste management practices in the Aseer region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hence, there is a need for regular training, workshops, and continuous educational programs on dental waste management.