Yazd Journal of Dental Research

Introduction: Biopsy is a prerequisite step for identifying and diagnosing the maxillofacial lesions. Among this, proper transfer of samples to the laboratories may have an important effect on the pathologist’s diagnosis and reported result. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of general dentists’ of indications and contraindications of biopsy, proper manipulation, preservation and transferring specimens.

Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectioned study, 111 general dentists were attended in Yazd, in 2012. Data were collect using valid and reliable questionnaires. The questionnaires were included two parts: demographic information (age, gender, professional experience) and the knowledge questions. Data were analyzed by SPSS 17 software, ANOVA and T-test.

Results: Out of 111 general dentists (mean age 34.6 ± 9.49), 51 (46%) were male and 60 (54%) were female. The mean score of dentists’ knowledge was recorded as 5.43±1.53. The average knowledge score  in different age groups showed the significant difference (P-value=0.029). However, this relationship in terms of gender ((P-value=0.172) and the previous professional experience ((P-value=0.160) was not significantly differente.

Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, general dentists’ knowledge was not in a desirable level in Yazd. Therefore, continuous training during the studies, and also after graduation is necessory to improve scientific and practical skills.