Knowledge, Attitudes, and Self-Reported Practices Regarding Modern Adhesive Systems Among Romanian Dentists: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Source abstract
Abstract
Background: The rapid evolution of dental adhesive systems presents both opportunities and challenges for clinical practice, particularly regarding the translation of emerging evidence into routine use. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported practices related to modern adhesive systems among Romanian dentists and to explore factors associated with their clinical decision-making. Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2025 and February 2026 using a 115-item online questionnaire. A convenience sample of 372 Romanian dentists participated. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square and Kruskal–Wallis tests, and multivariate models (multiple linear regression, binary logistic regression, and multinomial logistic regression). Internal consistency of the knowledge scale was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Results: The knowledge scale demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.873). Although 68.0% of respondents reported familiarity with universal adhesives, a discrepancy between awareness and reported clinical application was observed for several key concepts, including MMP inhibitors and hydrolytic stability. Notably, 14.8% of participants were unaware whether their preferred adhesive system contained 10-MDP. Continuing education frequency was the only independent predictor of higher knowledge scores (β = 1.63, p = 0.024), while greater clinical experience was inversely associated with rubber dam use (OR = 0.550, p = 0.024). Conclusions: The findings suggest a discrepancy between theoretical knowledge and the clinical implementation of modern adhesive concepts. Structured continuing education plays a critical role in improving knowledge and may help bridge this gap in clinical practice.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Dental materials and restorations · Surgical Sutures and Adhesives · Dental Erosion and Treatment
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Doctoral School, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, “Vasile Goldiş” Western University of Arad, 94-96 Revoluţiei Blvd., 310025 Arad, Romania
Department of Management and Communication in Dental Medicine, Department I, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timișoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
Department of Surgical Oncology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
Department of Ethics and Social Sciences, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540139 Târgu Mureș, Romania
Doctoral School, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, 540139 Târgu Mureș, Romania
Department of Implantology, Removable Prostheses and Dental Prostheses Technology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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