Dentists' Knowledge and Clinical Preferences Regarding Evidence-Based Restorative Material Selection in Türkiye:...

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the self-reported knowledge levels of evidence-based practice among actively practicing dentists in Türkiye in relation to restorative material selection, and to identify the demographic and professional factors associated with this knowledge. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive survey included 341 dentists and was conducted using an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Factors associated with self-reported knowledge levels of evidence-based dentistry were initially assessed using ordinal logistic regression. As the proportional odds assumption was violated, multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed as the final model. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Aesthetic expectations and durability were identified as the primary factors influencing restorative material selection. Approximately half of the participants reported low-to-moderate levels of knowledge regarding evidence-based dentistry. Multinomial logistic regression analysis demonstrated that professional experience, professional status, and type of institution were significant predictors of knowledge level (p < 0.05). General dental practitioners were significantly less likely to have high knowledge levels compared to specialists. Certain experience groups also showed a lower likelihood of achieving higher knowledge levels relative to the reference group. Although the type of institution was statistically significant, its overall effect was limited. Conclusions: The findings indicate that knowledge of evidence-based approaches in restorative material selection among dentists in Türkiye remains suboptimal. While professional status and experience play a significant role in shaping knowledge levels, institutional factors appear to have a comparatively minor impact. These results underscore the need for structured continuing education programmes-particularly for general dental practitioners-and highlight the importance of strengthening evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice.