Knowledge and Awareness About Periapical Lesions Among Clinical Students and General Practitioners: A Survey

Periapical lesions of endodontic origin are common pathological conditions affecting periradicular tissues. Microbial infection of pulpal tissues is primarily responsible for initiation and progression of periapical lesions. The primary objective of endodontic therapy should be to restore involved teeth to a state of normalcy nonsurgically. The aim of this survey was to assess knowledge and awareness about periapical lesion among clinical students including third year, final year, interns, postgraduate students and general practitioners. This cross-sectional study was done among clinical students and general practitioners from various institutions in Chennai. A total of 120 participants took part in this survey study. Results were analysed and compared using the SPSS Statistical Software by doing both the frequency tests and correlation tests. Chi-square test shows P=0, P<0.05, a significant value, proving that there is significant association between having skills and knowledge to handle a patient with periapical lesions and occupation and between gender and awareness about symptoms of periapical lesions. Regarding their knowledge, respondents of the survey showed an acceptable level of knowledge and awareness about periapical lesions.