Knowledge, Awareness, Attitude, and Opinion about Application of Dental Stem Cells: A Dental School-Based Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge, awareness, attitude, and opinion concerning dental stem cells among faculty, postgraduates, and interns in a dental school. Materials and Methods A questionnaire consisting of 12 questions was circulated among the 150 participants (50 faculty, 50 postgraduate students, and 50 interns). A questionnaire was prepared that could assess the basic knowledge on stem cells (dental) based on similar previous studies. The questionnaire data were entered by the investigator in Microsoft Excel 2010 on a corresponding day. Using Predictive Analytics Tools (Version 18), the analysis was done. Probability ratios by Pearson were used to analyze the application of knowledge, perception regarding stem cells. Results The survey participants consisted of ~73% of females and 27% of males. Most of the participants have come across the term stem cells and thought that only pulp stem cells signified the only source of dental stem cells. The majority of the participants pointed out the anticipated high cost to be the biggest obstacle to a patient accepting regenerative dental treatment by stem cells. Conclusion This study reveals a good level of knowledge among dental professionals, and it also showed the need to develop more awareness about the advancements in applications and banking.