Evidence-practice gap in treatment recommendations for proximal caries among Brazilian dentists

ABSTRACT Little is known about how Brazilian dentists’ treatment decisions for proximal carious lesions are compared to current evidence-based recommendations, so better understanding needed close any potential evidence-practice gap. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed quantify the gap and identify dentist factors associated with this Methods: dentists (n=214) from Araraquara, São Paulo State, “completed a questionnaire their practice characteristics translated version of “Assessment Caries Diagnosis Treatment” U.S. National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. Five radiographic images in low-risk high-risk patient scenarios were used. Associations between recommendations lesion, dentist, tested statistical significance (p<0.05). Results: Lesions confined enamel would be restored by 35% 71% scenarios, respectively, suggesting substantial given that surgical intervention not consistent evidence. The lesion depth threshold recommend permanent restoration differed (p<0.001). Specific dentist/practice (dentist gender, graduate public dental school, postgraduate training, use caries risk assessment) significantly gap, but magnitude these differences was major Conclusion: A found sample overall, even when clinical presented patients. Global strategies