Knowledge and Awareness of Metabolic Syndrome and its Relationship with Periodontal Disease among Dental Practitioners in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aims: The study aimed to assess the knowledge of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and the awareness of its association with periodontal disease (PD) among dental practitioners in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 239 dental practitioners using a convenience sampling method. A structured, closed-ended, self-reported, valid, and reliable instrument was used to assess the demographic characteristics, MetS knowledge, and awareness of the association between MetS and PD. Each correct and incorrect answer was scored 1 and 0, respectively. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation for continuous variables, and frequency and percentages for categorical variables. Knowledge and awareness scores were compared using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: The mean knowledge score for MetS was 3.72 ± 2.32, while the awareness score for the association between MetS and PD was 3.55 ± 1.73. Significant differences were found in MetS knowledge based on nationality, with non-Saudi dental practitioners scoring higher (147.96) than Saudi dental practitioners (109.77, P < 0.001). Similarly, awareness of the relationship between MetS and PD differed significantly by nationality (non-Saudi: 159.77 vs. Saudi: 105.45, P < 0.001), educational level (bachelor's vs. Saudi board vs. master's: 96.75 vs. 119.67 vs. 139.98, P < 0.001), and professional rank (general dental practitioners vs. specialists vs. consultants: 109.13 vs. 130.27 vs. 154, P = 0.004). Conclusion: Dental practitioners in Riyadh exhibited limited knowledge of MetS cutoff values, but their awareness of the connection between MetS and PD was moderate. These findings underscore the need for continuous professional education to enhance both MetS knowledge and the understanding of its relationship with periodontal disease. Enhanced education and training on MetS and its oral health implications should be prioritized in dental curricula and continuing education programs. Given the potential impact of MetS on periodontal health, improving dental practitioners' awareness can lead to earlier identification and management of related oral health issues, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Future studies could explore the impact of targeted educational interventions on improving dental practitioners' knowledge of MetS and its relationship with PD. Further research should also investigate how increased awareness influences clinical practice and patient care, especially in preventing and managing periodontal disease in patients with MetS.