Ethical Perspectives and Attitudes of Dentists Towards Endodontic Instrument Fracture: A Cross-Sectional Study in Iran
نویسندگان
1 Associate Professor of Endodontics, Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
2 Student Research Committee, Faculty of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran
3 Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
4 DDS, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
5 Associate Professor of Oral & Maxillofacial Medicine, Oral & Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
doi
10.22037/jds.v44i1.50160چکیده
Objective(s): Fracture of endodontic instruments is a common procedure complication with significant ethical implications. The attitudes and judgments of dentists concerning the disclosure and handling of such incidents are essential for ethical practice and patient trust. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed alongside 361 dental practitioners across the country, utilizing a validated questionnaire to evaluate ethical conduct and regards concerning fractured endodontic instrument. Data were statistically analyzed using the chi-square test at a 5% significant threshold. Results: Among the participants, 85% experienced fractured instrument. Only 41.7% stated that they informed the patient when such an mishap occurred. Among cases with a good prognosis, 52.9% chose to complete treatment without informing the patient. In cases with a poor prognosis, 54.9% informed the patient and referred them to a specialist. Endodontists demonstrated more ethically aligned responses in some scenarios (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A significant portion of dentists are reluctant to report fractured instrument, particularly in situations with a positive prognosis. This underscores the necessity for enhanced ethical training and consistent protocols regarding patient communication and mishap management.
