Clinical dental privileges in Saudi Arabia: awareness, perceived competence, and practice among general dentists

The aim of this study was to assess the awareness of general dentists in Saudi Arabia on clinical dental privileges, evaluate the practicality of these privileges in clinical practice, and to explore dentists perceived competence in performing procedures that are considered beyond their authorized scope. A questionnaire was distributed randomly to general dentists across Saudi Arabia through the research offices of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties and the Saudi Dental Society. The questionnaire included demographic data, self-reported awareness of MOH dental privileges, and responses to six clinical scenarios to assess privilege awareness, perceived competence, and clinical practice. Chi-square tests were used to analyze associations between these variables, with significance set at p < 0.05. Out of 238 respondents, 72% reported awareness of MOH dental privileges. However, significant mismatches were observed between awareness and actual practice across most scenarios. Procedures most commonly performed outside authorized privileges included in-office vital tooth bleaching, placement of single-unit crowns, and molar root canal treatment (RCT). A strong association was found between lack of awareness of the privileges or perceived competence and performing these procedures. Despite moderate levels of awareness, significant gaps remain between general dentists' awareness, perceived competence, and actual clinical practice. The majority of the sample perform procedures beyond their authorized scope of care, often due to misunderstandings about privilege boundaries or confidence in their skills. These findings highlight the need for enhanced communication of privilege regulations, integration of privilege education into undergraduate curricula, and alignment between training and policy. Such reforms are essential to ensure safe, standardized dental practice in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.