A Comparative Study of Oral Health Attitudes and Behaviors in Dental Students

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study is to compare oral health attitudes and behaviors between preclinical and clinical dental students. Material and Methods: A questionnaire was prepared regarding oral health attitudes and behaviors. The survey was carried out at a faculty of dentistry in Ankara, Turkey. 528 questionnaires were responded by dental students (366 preclinical and 162 clinical students). Age, gender and and academic year data were also recorded. Data was statistically analyzed by Pearson's Chi-Square tests. Results: Most of the preclinical students received oral hygiene instructions from their families (45%), and clinical students from university (37%). Almost all of the students (96% of both group) used manual toothbrush. The strengthening effect of the fluoride in the toothpaste was known by 95% of clinical and 63% of preclinical students. 57% of the clinical students underwent to professional dental care once or twice a year, while 45% of the preclinical students were not aware about dental care requirements. The responses varied to the question about criteria of choosing toothpaste. Ingredient (36% and 43% for preclinical and clinical, respectively) and price (15% and 20% for preclinical and clinical, respectively) of the toothpaste were the most frequent reasons. Eleven percent of preclinical and 18% of clinical students were smokers. Conclusions: The outcomes of this study show that oral health and behavior of dental students increased with professional education but behaviors regarding use of oral rinse, use amount of water after brushing and use of toothpick didnot substantially improve.