Assessment of Knowledge, Clinical Experience, and Clinical Decision-Making Regarding Coronectomy of Mandibular Third Molars Among General Dentists and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background/

Objectives

Coronectomy is a nerve-preserving alternative for mandibular third molars at high risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury. However, coronectomy-related knowledge, clinical experience, treatment preferences, and self-reported decision-making confidence may differ between general dentists (GD group) and oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS group). This study aimed to compare these factors and identify factors associated with coronectomy-related knowledge.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted between June 2024 and January 2026 among 300 dentists in Turkey. Participants were divided into the OMFS group (n = 153) and GD group (n = 147) and recruited using convenience sampling. A 34-item questionnaire assessed objective and self-perceived knowledge, attitudes, clinical experience, treatment preferences, and self-reported decision-making confidence. Total knowledge scores were calculated from correct responses. Non-parametric tests, chi-square tests, Spearman's correlation, item-level analysis, and multivariable linear regression were performed.

Results

The median knowledge score was 39 (IQR: 9) out of a maximum possible score of 47. The OMFS group had higher knowledge scores, greater self-reported decision-making confidence, and more coronectomy experience than the GD group. Self-perceived knowledge showed a moderate positive correlation with total knowledge score (ρ = 0.414, p < 0.001). Item-level analysis identified lower correct response rates for radiographic risk markers, contraindications, and coronectomy-related complications. Professional group, prior awareness of coronectomy, and preference for three-dimensional imaging were independently associated with total knowledge score; however, the multivariable model explained only a modest proportion of the variance (adjusted R2 = 0.169).

Conclusions

Coronectomy-related awareness was high; however, knowledge, experience, and self-reported decision-making confidence differed between the groups. Awareness alone may be insufficient for self-reported confidence in decision-making. These finding s may help identify areas for targeted continuing education and structured clinical guidance, particularly in radiographic risk assessment, case selection, and referral decisions.