Evaluating the knowledge of general dentists regarding smile aesthetic indices in Isfahan

With a proper understanding of smile esthetic indices and criteria, dentists can provide patients with the best diagnosis and treatment plan or refer them to relevant specialists. Thus, This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of general dentists in Isfahan regarding smile aesthetic indices and criteria.

In this descriptive cross-sectional study a questionnaire was administered to 105 general dentists in Isfahan City, consisting of questions about demographics, awareness of smile aesthetics indicators, and the impact of training and occupational therapy on their knowledge. The questionnaire included 11 pictures of smiles, each with a single beauty indicator that varied from ideal, with options for desired indicators listed for each photo. The data was analyzed using T-tests and Mann-Whitney statistical tests (α=0.05).

The results showed that the level of knowledge about smile esthetic indices among general dentists was varied. Among participants, 56.2% and 1.0% showed the highest and lowest level of knowledge, respectively. Age showed a reverse relation to knowledge (P=0.040, r= -0.201) even though no correlation between gender and beauty retraining courses to knowledge was found (p > 0.05).

The level of knowledge of dentists participating in the study of smile esthetic indices was good.