Knowledge, awareness and perception of dental students about the world workshop classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions 2017 - a questionnaire-based survey

Background: The latest classification for periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions was introduced in 2017 which marked a significant milestone in the field of periodontics. However, the extent of awareness, knowledge, and acceptance among dental students remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and perception (KAP) of University of Sharjah(UOS) dental students towards the latest classification. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was sent through email to a total of 372 participants including undergraduate dental students and interns. The questionnaire addressed participants’ demographics, awareness, usage, knowledge, and perceptions of the latest ‘Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases and Conditions Classification’. The statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test of proportion. Results: Among the 372 students included in the study, a total of 329 students participated by completing the online survey, resulting in an 83.92% response rate. The awareness regarding the latest classification was high (91.1%) and 88.7% of them implemented it in their practice. Furthermore, most participants recognized the advantages of the 2017 classification, with 76.2% acknowledging the inclusion of clinical health definitions. The mean overall knowledge score was least in BDS 3 (1.37 ± 1.05) and highest in the interns (1.37 ± 1.05). The students had a positive perception of the latest 2017 classification being user-friendly (64%), applicable in the day-to-day dental clinic (55.3%), and satisfied with the classification scheme (62.6%). However, 69.5% of students suggested a need for a thorough educational program on the latest classification. Conclusions: The present survey reveals high awareness and usage of the 2017 periodontal classification among UOS dental students, with knowledge increasing across academic years. While students generally held positive perceptions of the classification’s advantages and user-friendliness, further educational programs on the latest classification, diagnosis, and treatment planning in periodontics are needed.