The Attitude and Practice of Dentists in Relation with HIV and HBV Infected Patients in Isfahan Province

Introduction: Despite serious warnings about the possibility of infection transmission to patients, dental staffs are more at risk of cross infection. Since dentists’ attitude and professional behavior plays an important role in their health promotion and community, the aim of this investigation was to assess the attitude and practice of dentists of Isfahan in relation to HIV Methods: In a descriptive – cross sectional study, 237 dentists from Isfahan (Iran) were selected by randomized cluster sampling. A questionnaire regarding the dentist’s attitude and practice in relation with HIV and HBV infected patients was prepared. The questionnaires were distributed in private and public clinics and offices. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and T test. (α=0.05) Results: Mean total score of attitude and practice were 46.95 and 46.19, respectively (total score was 75 and 54). Score of specialist dentists’ attitude were significantly higher than general dentists’ attitude (P<0.001). Other demographic variables did not have significant impact in attitude and practice. Score of dentist in private office in comparison with clinics were significantly lower (P<0.05). Conclusion: Compliance of dentists in relation to proper infection control is good and partly acceptable but their attitude about AIDS & HBV is poor. Educational courses to address fear of dentists and guiding them about AIDS & HBV are recommended.