The Perception of Evidence-based Dentistry among Dental Professionals in Saudi Arabia during COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused extraordinary changes in dental practices, including evidence-based dentistry (EBD). Despite dental practitioners' positive attitudes toward EBD, implementation has been limited. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of EBD among dental professionals in Saudi Arabia and explore the COVID-19 pandemic impacts on perceptions of EBD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire that was distributed electronically to dentists and dental students in Saudi Arabia. Multiple linear regression and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The mean knowledge score was 48.33 +/- 13.63 out of 70 points, with 37.31% to 60.45% awareness of EBD components. Only 37% were aware of the Cochrane Collaboration. Specialist/consultants and participants from the central region had significantly better knowledge scores. Lack of time (75.60%) was the most significant barrier to EBD. Only 36.60% of participants used EBD for treatment procedures. Most (72.4%-80.6%) believed the pandemic increased EBD's importance, 67.70% believed that EBD should be mandatory, and 62.90% believed all decisions in dental clinics will follow EBD in the future. However, 53.50% reported that EBD material was difficult to follow during COVID-19. Conclusions: The level of knowledge about EBD among dental professionals in Saudi Arabia is relatively acceptable. It is difficult to put EBD to practice due to the overwhelming flow of information. More educational and organizational efforts should be implemented to advocate for EBD.