European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Hyperglycemia is a condition in which there is an increase in the blood glucose level of the person. It is one of the most common systemic conditions in middle aged Indians. It is important for a dentist and dental students to be aware of the condition especially while performing invasive procedures as delayed wound healing, coma and hypoglycemic shock are some of the most common complications encountered in some patients. Hence, it is important to know about this condition to prevent any kind of medical emergency on a dental chair. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of dental students while managing hyperglycemic patients indicated for extraction. This study was carried out in a self administered questionnaire format among the students of a dental university. The questionnaire was created on an online platform called “Survey Planet” and was filled by 100 students. The questionnaire consisted of the major aspects of knowledge on hyperglycemia and how students will manage the patient before performing the extraction procedure on them. Based on the tabulated results, it was seen that dental students have greater knowledge towards dealing with hyperglycemic patients indicated for extraction. 64% said that they can perform extraction on a hyperglycemic patient. 93% said that they would test an elderly patient to check their blood glucose level before the procedure. 72% were aware of the management of hyperglycemia. 45% of the participants said that they would do the treatment only after the patient consulted a physician. 11% said that they would deny the treatment. 82% of the participants said that they would keep the appointment for the extraction in the morning. Thus we can conclude that dental students have good knowledge and attitude toward managing hyperglycemic patients indicated for extraction