Knowledge, Awareness, and Perception of Digital Dentistry in Lahore Medical and Dental College: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, awareness, and perception of digital dentistry among dentists at Lahore Medical and Dental College. The objectives of the study are to provide insight into the different digital techniques and materials used and to identify the reasons for lack of awareness.

Design: Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study.

Setting: Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan from 6^th January 2025 to 25^th February 2025.

Materials and Methods: Hundred participants filled the questionnaire to assess the knowledge, awareness, and perception of digital dentistry. The survey consisted of questions assessing the participants’ knowledge of digital dentistry including advantages, uses, disadvantages of CAD-CAM technology, CAD-CAM systems and materials used in clinical applications. Score for each participant was calculated and categorized as low, moderate and high. Data was analyzed using SPSS and Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare differences between the groups.

Results: Eighty-seven percent were aware of digital technology in dentistry and 77% were aware of the clinical applications of CAD-CAM technology. The median scores for knowledge, awareness and perception in the study population were 14 (±6.99), 4 (±1.76), and 13 (±2.33) respectively. The level of knowledge and awareness was moderate whereas perception was high among the participants.

Conclusion: The study showed that perception of digital dentistry was high whereas knowledge and awareness was moderate therefore policies must be developed to include trainings at an institutional level and make it a part of the undergraduate curriculum.