Awareness On Medicinal Applications Of Silver Nanoparticles Among Dental Students

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles are of interest due to the exclusive properties with respect to size and shape depending optical, electrical and magnetic properties) which can be incorporated into antimicrobial applications, biosensor materials, composite fibers, cryogenic superconducting materials, cosmetic products and electronic components. Silver bio-nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been known to have inhibitory and bactericidal effects. Aim: This survey was conducted for assessing the awareness about medicinal application of Silver nanoparticles amongst dental students. Materials and Method: A cross-section research was conducted with a self-administered questionnaire containing ten questions distributed amongst 100 dental students. The questionnaire assessed the awareness about Silver nanoparticles therapy in medical applications, antibacterial properties, anti-cancer activities, antioxidant properties, anti-diabetic properties and their toxicity, the responses were recorded and analysed. Results: 12% of the respondents were aware of the medicinal applications of Silver Nanoparticles. 9% were aware of antibacterial properties of Silver Nanoparticles. 9% were aware of antioxidant properties of Silver Nanoparticles, 9% were aware of anti-cancer properties of Silver Nanoparticles, 6% were aware of anti-diabetic properties of Silver Nanoparticles and 4% were aware of their toxicity Conclusion: There is limited awareness amongst dental students about use of Silver nanoparticles therapy in medical applications. Enhanced awareness initiatives and dental educational programmes together with increased importance for curriculum improvements that further promote knowledge and awareness of Silver nanoparticles therapy