The Uptake of Nickel-Titanium Rotary Files in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Aim. We surveyed the uptake of nickel-titanium rotary files (NTRFs) among all dentists in Saudi Arabia. Methodology. A questionnaire encompassing endodontic performance and NTRF uptake was e-mailed to all members of the Saudi Dental Society. Data were collected from participants during a three-month period and were analyzed using χ2 tests and correlation coefficients. Level of significance was set at P=0.05. Results. The overall response rate was 30.6% (n=490), and 82.9% were found to perform root canal treatment (RCT). Among the 406 RCT performers, general dentists formed the bulk (45%). Among endodontists, 91.5% were using NTRF (P<0.001). Those who graduated between 1991 and 2000 used NTRF more than any other group did (78.4%, P=0.05). Graduates from Europe and Australia used NTRF most frequently (100%, P=0.001), followed by those from North America (87%, P=0.001), and finally by Saudi Arabian graduates (68.7%). Male respondents performed more endodontic procedures and used NTRF significantly more often than female respondents did (males: 73%; females: 56.2%) (P=0.001). The most significant reasons for not using NTRF were “unavailability” (64.7%, P≤0.05) and “lack of experience” (54.1%, P≤0.001). Conclusions. We found that NTRF usage was not as widespread in Saudi Arabia as in other developing countries. Therefore, we suggest an improved implementation of NTRF in undergraduate and postgraduate curriculums and the provision of educational courses with a greater focus on this development.