Determinants of the Knowledge of Forensic Odontology among Dentists in Makassar City, Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Dentists must have sufficient knowledge of forensic odontology as they have an important role in identifying victims in a disaster or violent crime incident. This research aimed to analyze the determinants of the knowledge of dentists in Makassar City, Indonesia regarding forensic odontology.

Methodology: A questionnaire was distributed among  to 142 dentists in Makassar City, Indonesia. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis in the form of bivariate and multivariate logistic regression with a significant p value of less than 0.05.

Results: The results of this research indicated that 59.9% (n=85) respondents had high knowledge of forensic odontology with good category. Based on bivariate logistic regression analysis, it showed that updated information on forensic odontology (OR=4.401, 95%CI=1.690-11,466) was significantly associated with increased knowledge (p-value=0.002). Similarly, based on multivariate logistic regression analysis, it showed that updated information on forensic odontology (OR=4,468, 95%CI=1,687-11,835) was significantly associated with an increase in knowledge (p-value=0.003).

Conclusions: Dentists’ level of knowledge regarding forensic odontology in Makassar City is in the good category. Dentists who update information on forensic odontology are four times more likely to have knowledge of forensic odontology and it is significantly associated with increased knowledge.