Dentist's Knowledge about Different Impression Techniques for Making Removable Prosthodontics in Isfahan

One of the most important procedures in making removable prosthodontics, is impression making. This study tried to assess the knowledge of dentists in Isfahan city about different impression techniques for making removable prosthodontics. This was a survey study carried out among 100 Isfahanian dentists who were selected by convenience sampling method in the year 2003. The data collection tool was a questionnaire including 15 questions about partial and 20 question about complete denture. The data was analyzed by t-test, Spearman Correlation and ANOVA tests using SPSS software. Mean and standard deviation of dentists’ knowledge were 14.9 5.1 out of 35 and it’s range was 4 to 29. The mean score of dentists’ knowledge about complete and partial denture were 8.6 3.5 and 6.2 2.3 out of 15, respectively. There was no significant relationship between dentists’ knowledge and history of participating in continuous education programs. Moreover, no significant relationship was observed between knowledge and gender of the dentists. But, there was a significant counter-relationship between knowledge and the time passed from their graduation. It seems that dentists’ knowledge about different impression techniques for removable prosthodontics is not optimal. Also, the more years passes from their graduation, the less is their score of knowledge. In order to improve dentists’ knowledge, it is recommended to provide them with proper education during their study, effective continuous education programs, distance learning, and also to motivate and encourage them for studying the correct and scientific techniques.