Bridging the Digital Gap: Knowledge and Practice of Digital Dentistry among Indian Dental Surgeons.

BACKGROUND

Digital dentistry is the use of digital technologies for better quality and individualized oral healthcare. It includes clinical and administrative application within dental clinics and dental laboratories. Digital dentistry had changed day-to-day practices in clinical dentistry. Modern systems is user and patient-friendly which reduces treatment duration and patient waiting time for final prosthesis.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among registered dental surgeons working in urban and rural area of Eastern India. The online questionnaire along with cover letter and sent through email and other digital modes. The study was conducted among dental surgeons working in government or private organizations in Eastern India from April 2025 to March 2026.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 600 participants employed in the government (49.5%) and private sectors (50.5%) of Eastern India. There was a significant difference in knowledge scores between participants from the private sector and those from the government sector (p = 0.005). A higher attitude score was also found in the private sector (p = 0.024), indicating a more positive or favorable attitude towards the use of digital dentistry.

CONCLUSION

Dentists practicing in private sector or dental clinics had more knowledge, attitude, and practice skills regarding digital technology compared to their colleagues in working in government organizations. Patients in rural areas have less demand and awareness regarding alternative digital technology.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The dental clinical practice has changed in modern era. The foundation of better accuracy with the adaptation of modern digital technology has changed the patient perception, of oral and dental health care. Bridging this gap requires not just technology, but policy changes in government hospitals.