Clinical Adoption and Perspectives on Bioceramic and Bioactive Materials Among Dental Specialists: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Bioceramics and bioactive materials have transformed modern dentistry, particularly in regenerative endodontics and minimally invasive procedures, owing to their exceptional biocompatibility and their ability to promote tissue regeneration. Understanding the factors influencing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward these materials is crucial for advancing their clinical application. This study explored how sex, specialty, and academic rank shape KAP among dental specialties with the aim of identifying barriers for the integration of bioceramics and bioactive materials in dental education and practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics. The study involved 420 participants recruited from 16 dental colleges across India, with four colleges from each geographical zone (North, South, East, and West), using a secure online survey platform. Participants, categorized by sex, specialty (endodontists, pedodontists, public health dentists, prosthodontists), and academic rank (senior lecturer, reader, professor), completed a validated questionnaire assessing KAP toward bioceramics and bioactive materials. The KAP scores were evaluated using median values. Non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis) were used to assess the differences across variables. Spearman's correlation was used to examine the relationships between the KAP scores and experience, specialty, and rank. Network analysis was used to analyze the influence of hierarchies within academic ranks and specialties. RESULTS: A total of 370 (88%) dental specialists responded. Significant differences were observed across groups. Male participants and endodontists exhibited higher knowledge and practice scores, whereas female participants showed more positive attitudes. Professors outperformed other ranks in knowledge and practice, but senior lecturers displayed less favorable attitudes. Experience was strongly correlated with higher knowledge and practice scores but negatively correlated with attitude. Network analysis identified professors and endodontists as key influencers, with senior lecturers and prosthodontists showing a lower influence. Attitudes remained consistently positive across specialties. CONCLUSION: Sex, specialty, and academic rank significantly influenced KAP toward bioceramics and bioactive materials, with professors and endodontists leading to better adoption. Sex-neutral, cross-specialty training and targeted interventions for senior lecturers could bridge knowledge gaps and enhance attitudes, promoting wider use of these materials in regenerative dentistry.