ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING ANTICOAGULANT THERAPY AMONG DENTAL STUDENTS, INTERNS, AND DENTISTS IN SAUDI ARABIA
Abstract
Introduction:
Dentists frequently encounter patients with chronic illnesses who are often on long-term medications, including oral antithrombotic such as antiplatelets and anticoagulants. Oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications pose a challenge during dental procedures, as dentists must balance the increased bleeding risk discontinued. Traditionally, the practice has been to stop these medications before procedures involving bleeding. Objective: The main objective of this study was to measure the knowledge level among dental students and dental practitioners in the region of Saudi Arabia about patients undergoing anticoagulant therapy and dental considerations in the procedure of teeth extraction.
Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in Saudi Arabia during 2024-2025, evaluates dental students', interns', and dentists' knowledge of managing patients on anticoagulant therapy for surgical extractions under local anesthesia. Participants are recruited using a structured questionnaire and stratified sampling to ensure diverse representation. A sample size of 385 was calculated for accuracy. The survey includes 23 questions covering demographics, knowledge, and clinical practices. Responses are scored based on Bloom's taxonomy, with participants categorized into low, moderate, and high knowledge levels. Data is collected via Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS to determine awareness and adherence to management protocols. Results: The study assessed the knowledge and awareness of dental professionals regarding the management of patients undergoing anticoagulant therapy among 474 participants in Saudi Arabia. The findings revealed that while 78.3% of respondents had encountered patients on oral anticoagulants, only 19.6% reported daily consultations, indicating a gap in ongoing management. A significant 58.1% did not adhere to guidelines regarding aspirin abstinence before dental procedures, raising concerns about bleeding risks. Overall, 51.1% demonstrated moderate knowledge, with significant correlations found between knowledge and factors such as age, occupation, and duration of practice, highlighting a need for enhanced education in anticoagulant management. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight significant gaps in knowledge and awareness among dental students and practitioners regarding the management of patients on anticoagulant therapy. The results underscore the urgent need for enhanced educational frameworks within dental curricula to better prepare future practitioners for the complexities of managing anticoagulated patients.