Aim: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess knowledge regarding autogenous tooth transplantation among oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) residents in India.
Study design: The sample of the survey consisted of Indian OMFS post-graduate residents attending the "1st Asian Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery PG Convention" held from 29th to 31st August, 2013 at Mangalore, India. Questions were asked regarding the participant's preferred tooth replacement modality, the transplantation procedure (socket preparation and stabilization of transplanted tooth); fate of the transplanted tooth (pulpal and periodontal fate) and the possibility of replacing second molars with such procedure, cross-arch transplantation and transplantation after new-socket preparation. The responses of 1st, 2nd and 3rd year residents were assessed for statistical significant difference using Fishers exact test.
Results: Out of 434 residents surveyed using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire, 287 residents responded (response rate 66 %). 74 % were aware of the possibility of autogenous third molar transplantation. Only 24 % believed a new periodontal ligament would form around the transplanted tooth. Misconceptions regarding pulp healing, socket preparation and tooth stabilization and new alveolus transplantation were also seen. 44 % had never seen the procedure and 74 % had never performed it themselves. No statistical significant difference was seen among the responses classified according to the year of training.
Conclusion: OMFS residents were found to have inadequate knowledge regarding autogenous tooth transplantation. Tooth transplantation needs to be included in the dental curriculum and standard OMFS textbooks with practical training in post-graduation period.
Keywords: Autotransplantation; Curriculum; Dental residency; Knowledge; Tooth.