An Evaluation of knowledge and preference of prosthodontic, orthodontic or integrated treatment options for peg shaped maxillary lateral incisors among general practitioners in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-A Survey

Background and objective: The requirement for dental specialties and the number of specialists in each country depends mainly on the complex oral health care needs of the society. Missing lateral incisor or Peg shaped lateral incisor is such a condition. The aim of this study was to assess the awareness of general practitioners regarding needs of prosthodontic, orthodontic, or integrated treatment approach for management of peg shaped lateral incisor through a self-represented survey.
Methodology: A Cross-sectional study was planned to conduct a survey using questionnaire containing 16 questions which were mailed and distributed to random sample of 292 general dental surgeons who voluntarily took part in the study.
Results: Results were self-descriptive due to simple form of questionnaire. Most important goal for the treatment according to 80.7% responders was improvement in esthetics. According to responders, malocclusion was the most important factor (41.6%) which influences the treatment plan. 73.9 % responders told that the prefer to refer the patient to specialist when patients are reported with malocclusion and highly esthetic demand. Almost 40% responders do the diagnostic wax up in such cases. 43.2% responders decided to plan prosthetic treatment after completion of orthodontic treatment and for that full coverage crown was the most preferred choice for rehabilitation. 90.1% of responders believed that combination of both orthodontic and prosthodontic approach was best to achieve the perfect treatment outcome.
Conclusion: Pre restorative orthodontic treatment is best for management of peg lateral incisor. Multidisciplinary approach towards the complex dental treatment is always better for the best treatment outcome. Referral system is also developed by such means.