BRIDGING THE GAP -A FOCUS GROUP STUDY ONNEED FOR TRANSFORMATION IN DENTALAMALGAM USAGE ASA PART OF DENTAL CURRICULUM

Background:Dental caries, a widespread non-communicable disease, is often treated using dental amalgam or resin composite. Amalgam, used for over 150 years,contains about 50% mercury,posing health risks such as neuropsychological and renal toxicity, hypersensitivity reactions, and environmental hazards. This raises concerns about its continued use in dental education, necessitating a re-evaluation of dental curricula.

Methods:This qualitative study used focus group discussions to explore perceptions of amalgam usage. Fifteen participants, including academic staff, clinical practitioners,management,students,nonteaching staff,and patients,were selected via mixed purposeful sampling. Participants discussed challenges in teaching amalgam use, disposal practices, and the need for curriculum reform. Data were recorded, thematically analysed, and validated by participants.

Results:Key themes identified were knowledge gaps in the curriculum, environmental impact of amalgam,teaching challenges,clinical use of amalgam,disposal strategies, and curriculum reform needs. Participants acknowledged mercury toxicity,and the extensive cavity preparation required for amalgam.Some supported amalgam for its durability and cost-effectiveness, while others preferred aesthetic composite restorations. Training on amalgam handling and disposal was deemed inadequate, highlighting the need for curricular updates to reduce amalgam use and incorporate alternative materials.