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Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dentists regarding regenerative endodontics: A systematic review and
Filipe Colombo Vitali1, Alexandre Henrique Reis-Prado2, Pablo Silveira Santos1
1Department of Dentistry, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil.
Background:
Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) are a promising treatment option for immature permanent teeth. However, their clinical adoption remains inconsistent among dentists. The authors assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dentists regarding REPs.
Type Of Studies Reviewed:
A search was conducted in 6 electronic databases and gray literature to identify studies assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dentists regarding REPs. A critical appraisal of the included studies was conducted using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies. Meta-analyses of proportions were performed to estimate pooled outcomes. Heterogeneity was explored via subgroup analyses and meta-regressions.
Results:
Twenty-eight cross-sectional surveys were included. A large percentage of dentists (87%; 95% CI, 80% to 95%) knew the term regenerative endodontics, although fewer than one-half had received continuing education on the topic (46%; 95% CI, 37% to 55%). Apexification was the preferred treatment for necrotic immature permanent teeth (61%; 95% CI, 51% to 70%), followed by REPs (37%; 95% CI, 28% to 46%). In addition, 54% (95% CI, 45% to 66%) perceived REPs as more expensive. Most participants expressed a positive attitude toward REPs, with 90% (95% CI, 78% to 100%) recommending its use and 91% (95% CI, 86% to 95%) expressing willingness to train. The main motivation for adopting REP was its perceived superior efficacy (53%; 95% CI, 49% to 58%). Cost was the most reported barrier (63%; 95% CI, 53% to 74%). Regarding practice, 49% (95% CI, 42% to 57%) of dentists reported performing REPs.
Conclusions And Practical Implications:
Although dentists generally have positive knowledge and attitudes toward REPs, their translation into routine clinical practice remains limited. Broader adoption will likely depend on reducing cost barriers and expanding opportunities for continuing education. A protocol was registered previously in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database (CRD420251043760).
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