Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Defensive dentistry, can be defined as the practice of diagnostic or therapeutic measures conducted primarily not to ensure the health of the patient, but as a safeguard against possible malpractice liability. Aim of the study is to evaluate the prevalence of perception about defensive dentistry for dentists as a “2. Degree” risks group about malpractice liability.

METHODS

Study was performed in Alsancak Oral-Dental Health Center in İzmir, Turkey between 15-19 July 2013. A questionnaire called “Defensive Dentistry Practice Survey” which was made by researcher was applied. For data collection, face to face interview methods were used 66 dentists who were working in this hospital, were aggreed to join the survey (n: 66).

RESULTS

In agreement with the other recent studies, the results showed that most of the dentists practice defensive dentistry. When the dentists’ tendency level to practice defensive dentistry was evaluated, score was found to be %45,5 and this score shows that they apply the defensive dentistry at best level (n: 30), the score %33,3 is good level (n: 22), score % 15,2 is medium level (n: 10) and the score %6,1 is poor level (n: 4).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Study shows that the defensive dentistry applications are being used commonly among the dentists.