Knowledge and practices of dentists towards patients on antithrombotic medication therapy: A cross-sectional survey
Cerrahpaşa Medical Journal. 2023;47(3):1-8.
ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of the present study was to describe the knowledge, perception, and practices of general dentists and dentists with various specializations regarding the management of patients on antithrombotic drug therapy.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of dentists and specialists from different educational institutions and workplaces was conducted in Turkey between May 2022 and July 2022. The sample size comprised 153 subjects, and participants completed an electronic questionnaire containing 24 questions. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the data.
Results: Most of the surveyed dentists were aware of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and warfarin, while the novel antithrombotic agents apixaban and rivaroxaban were less known. Regarding the management of patients on novel oral antithrombotic medication during different dental procedures, there were no significant differences within groups according to clinical experience year (P = .409), whereas, for patients on ASA, both years of experience and area of expertise affected the participant's approach (P = .001). Monitoring of patients before dental procedures regarding blood tests did not differ according to years of clinical experience or specialty (P = .185, P = .688). Most participants (92%) sought a physician's opinion before invasive dental procedures, regardless of the type of oral antithrombotic medication.
Conclusion: The knowledge and dental management of patients on oral antithrombotic medications varied among dentists. Evident hesitancy toward treating such patients indicates a necessity for continuing education programs among dentists to provide better care for the patients without any fear of cardiovascular consequences.
KEYWORDS
Dental procedures · anticoagulants · antithrombotic
STUDY SUMMARY
This cross-sectional survey collected questionnaire responses from 153 dentists and specialists in Turkey about their knowledge and management of patients taking antithrombotic medication. Awareness of acetylsalicylic acid and warfarin was high while the newer agents apixaban and rivaroxaban were less familiar, approaches to patients on acetylsalicylic acid varied with years of experience and area of expertise, and 92% of respondents consulted a physician before invasive procedures. The study describes self-reported knowledge and practice at one point in time rather than treatment outcomes.