Dentists’ Attitude Towards Dental Treatment of Disabled Patients

BACKGROUND: Dental care is widely acknowledged as one of the most significant challenges facing individuals with disabilities. These patients cannot care for themselves and more attention should be paid to these individuals, particularly in oral health care. AIM OF THE STUDY: This research investigates the knowledge and expertise of the dentists at Ajman University regarding the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the factors influencing their ability to treat these patients in private practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Methods included a descriptive cross-sectional survey employing 18 fixed-choice questions administered to a representative sample of 150 dentists working in the Ajman University area (Both Ajman and Fujairah campuses). RESULTS: Most participants admitted to a lack of ideal expertise in working with individuals with disability. However, being in the minority, such individuals have acceptable experience to provide the first line treatment. CONCLUSION: The vast majority of participants expressed limitations with their training and limitations with an advanced level of care for this popular one. Other factors influencing the treatment of individuals with disabilities included the time it takes to treat the patients, inability to communicate with such patients, lack of patient collaboration, fear of causing harm to the patient and auxiliary staff and diminished patient compliance.