Evaluating the Knowledge and Practices of Dental Practitioners in Screening Body Dysmorphic Disorder Patients in Aesthetic Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a psycho-pathological condition which is on the rise particularly among young adults. These patients frequently visit the dental clinics for aesthetic, cosmetic and orthodontic interventions and pose a challenge to the unaware dental practitioner. Therefore, we conducted a study to assess the knowledge and practice among dentists based in India, United Kingdom and Australia on screening/managing patients with body dysmorphic disorder. Further the study aimed to compare these trends of existing knowledge based on clinical experience, speciality, gender and location and provide a review of literature to better understand this area. Materials and methods A survey was undertaken amongst clinicians to assess current knowledge among dentists on BDD screening/practices. An online questionnaire was issued to approximately 300 dental practitioners via dental association groups, research recruitment university portals and social media groups/portals across India, United Kingdom and Australia. Ninety-two participant responses were received and analysed. Results A significant majority of the participating dentists recorded basic (32.3%) to moderate (34.4%) awareness about BDD screening. Overall, a substantial proportion (45.6%) of the dentists who received the survey globally reported lack of any defined written or verbal questionnaire in their practice to screen for BDD. Similarly, more than half the dentists surveyed did not study BDD psychology or its management in the university curriculum nor in continuing education courses. It was noteworthy that 40% of the participating dentists had no defined protocol on how to provide a psychologic referral for suspected or known patients of BDD. More experienced clinical practitioners and those specialising in aesthetic, restorative, or orthodontics had heightened awareness and management for BDD. Training for BDD was reported by dentists in UK and Australia to be more advanced when compared to India. Conclusions The authors recommend a universal management strategy when encountering any patients with psychological problems like BDD. The results advocate the use of screening both verbal and written questionnaire based is suggested during patient interview prior to treatment. Education and awareness are essential for enhancing dentist-patient outcomes in cases involving BDD, and for ensuring appropriate management.