Knowledge and attitude toward anaphylaxis during local anesthesia among dental practitioners in Chennai – a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: Anaphylaxis is one of the local anesthetic dental emergencies that lead to morbidity and mortality. Hence, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of dental practitioners in Chennai toward managing anaphylaxis in patients who are given local anesthesia. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Seventeen questions were formulated regarding anaphylaxis reactions and its treatment. The questions were given to a random selection of dentists practicing in private clinics in Chennai. RESULTS: Two hundred dentists responded to the questionnaire. The results indicated that the majority of the participants had knowledge of one or more symptoms relating to anaphylaxis. However, none of the participants demonstrated that they knew about all symptoms relating to anaphylaxis. The results also did not vary with age. Only 62% of the dentists surveyed were equipped with emergency kits in their clinic. CONCLUSION: The present study has revealed the lack of knowledge among dentists in Chennai in relation to anaphylactic reactions and its management. Knowledge of practicing dentists in this area can be increased by providing continuing education programs consisting of workshops and hands-on courses.