THE PEDODONTIC TREATMENT APPROACHES OF DENTISTS AFTER GRADUATION

INTRODUCTION: In this study, it was aimed to obtain information about the rates of treatment of pediatric patients (0-18 years old) and which pediatric treatments are prioritized and practiced in the current clinical practice of dentists working in private and public hospitals in Antalya/Isparta province center. METHODS: Dentists who are working in Antalya province center in 200 private clinics, 50 in public hospitals and 40 in private clinics, 25 in public hospital in Isparta province center participate to the study as a volunteer. Questionnaire consisting of 29 questions were filled out by interviewing dentists. RESULTS: 76.2% of the 315 dentists participating in the study work in private clinics. 89.2% of the study of dentists stated that they were treating pediatric patients and this rate was determined as 95.8% in private clinics and 68% in public hospitals. The relationship between them was statistically significant. When endodontic treatments (direct pulping, amputation, canal treatment) were examined, it was seen that the inter-institutional relationship was important. Fissure sealant application from preventive treatments has been reported to be more frequent than fluoride application. 40% of the dentists in the study stated that they applied space retainers to the children. It has also been observed that space retainer applications are made more by the dentists working in private clinics. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Due to the high number of children and young people in our country, it is necessary for dentists working in private clinics and public hospitals to support dental treatment of child patients. However, since these treatments are very difficult and time-consuming, the number of dentists who are willing to work has not been enough. Increasing the knowledge and experience of dentists through training to treat child patients after graduation will help to ensure that more children's patients can be treated