Senior Dental Students Research Articles

Outcomes of Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy in Gingivitis and Periodontitis Patients Treated by Senior Dental Students.

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of nonsurgical periodontal therapy performed by senior dental students. Electronic records of patients treated by senior dental students at the comprehensive care clinic in King Abdulaziz University Dental Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Patients diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis who had undergone at least one session of scaling and root planing were included in this study. The following periodontal parameters were assessed: BOP, PI, PD and number of residual pockets. A total of 618 patients were included in this study (60.2% females and 39.8% males). BOP reduced from a median of 40% (IQR: 26.0%-62.0%) at baseline to 13% (IQR: 9.0%-20.3%) at re-evaluation in the gingivitis group (p < 0.0005). Similarly, a significant reduction in BOP, from 45% (IQR: 28.0%-64.3%) at baseline to 14% (IQR: 9.0%-21.5%) after phase I therapy, was observed in the periodontitis group (p > 0.001). In both groups, 31%-32% of patients had BOP < 10 at re-evaluation. PD of ≥ 5 mm was observed in 50.8% of patients with periodontitis at baseline; however, 38% of these patients had no residual pockets at re-evaluation. NSPT performed by senior dental students was effective in improving the periodontal status of the patients. Both gingivitis and periodontitis patients showed significant improvement in BOP and PI. Approximately, 32% of patients showed a reduction in BOP suggestive of a bleeding score associated with periodontal health. Moreover, patients diagnosed with periodontitis exhibited a significant reduction in the number of sites with deep probing (≥ 5).

Knowledge and Attitude of General Dentists, Senior Dental Students, and Orthodontic Residents Toward Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

The main objective of this study was to compare the knowledge and attitude of general dentists, senior dental students, and orthodontic residents toward obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A questionnaire was designed and administered among 73 senior dental students, 84 general dentists, and 50 orthodontic residents. The questionnaire asked for demographic information of the participants and assessed their knowledge and attitude toward OSA. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed by experts. Data were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis and Bonferroni tests using SPSS (α = 0.05). The mean knowledge scores of general dentists and senior dental students were significantly lower than those of orthodontic residents (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the knowledge score of senior dental students and general dentists (p = 1). The mean knowledge score was significantly higher in dentists with 1-3 years of professional clinical experience (p = 0.02). The knowledge score was the highest in dentists working in private clinics followed by private offices and public clinics. The mean attitude score was the highest in orthodontic residents followed by general dentists and dental students. There was no significant difference in attitude based on the attended university, age, or time of graduation. According to the results, general dentists had insufficient knowledge about OSA, which could result in under-diagnosis or misdiagnosis of patients with OSA. This finding highlights the need for further education and training for dentists to properly identify and refer OSA patients to orthodontists or sleep specialists.

Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on dental student's performance across disciplines during community site rotations: A comparative analysis.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted educational frameworks worldwide, particularly affecting health professions education. The impact on students varied based on local pandemic severity, public health policies, and institutional capacities. Our observational, retrospective study evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on senior dental students' performance during community rotations at Indiana University School of Dentistry. Data from student self-assessments and faculty evaluations, collected as part of the Community-Based Dental Education (CBDE) course between 2018 to 2022 was utilized. Five key domains of patient care: diagnosis and treatment planning, clinical skills, time management, interprofessional collaboration, and professionalism was assesed using a 5-point Likert scale. Pre- and post-pandemic comparisons of self-reported student evaluation and faculty assessment scores were conducted using two-sample t-tests, with ANOVA used to analyze cohort differences. Significant declines were observed in mean scores for diagnosis and treatment planning, clinical skills, time management, and interprofessional collaboration during the post-COVID period compared to pre-COVID levels (p<0.05). Conversely, an increase in average scores related to students' professionalism was noted, although this difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Class cohort-wise analysis showed similar patterns, with all cohorts experiencing significant declines in the aforementioned areas (p<0.05) and non-significant increases in professionalism scores (p>0.05). This study findings underscore the challenges faced by dental education in adapting to pandemic-induced disruptions and highlight the importance of adaptive approaches and support systems to address these challenges. Moving forward, resolving disparities in assessments and comprehending the various factors influencing student performance will be crucial to preserving the adaptability and effectiveness of dentistry education in the face of adversity.

Insights into research activities of senior dental students in the Middle East: A multicenter preliminary study

BackgroundDespite the increasing recognition of the importance of research in undergraduate dental education, limited studies have explored the nature of undergraduate research activities in dental schools in the Middle East region. This study aimed to evaluate the research experience of final year dental students from three dental schools in the Middle East.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among final-year dental students from three institutions, namely Jordan University of Science and Technology, University of Sharjah (UAE), and Oman Dental College. Participants were asked about the nature and scope of their research projects, the processes involved in the research, and their perceived benefits of engaging in research.Results A total of 369 respondents completed the questionnaire. Cross-sectional studies represented the most common research type (50.4%), with public health (29.3%) and dental education (27.9%) being the predominant domains. More than half of research proposals were developed via discussions with instructors (55.0%), and literature reviews primarily utilized PubMed (70.2%) and Google Scholar (68.5%). Regarding statistical analysis, it was usually carried out with instructor’s assistance (45.2%) or using specialized software (45.5%). The students typically concluded their projects with a manuscript (58.4%), finding the discussion section most challenging to write (42.0%). The research activity was considered highly beneficial, especially in terms of teamwork and communication skills, as well as data interpretation skills, with 74.1% of students reporting a positive impact on their research perspectives.ConclusionsThe research experience was generally positive among surveyed dental students. However, there is a need for more diversity in research domains, especially in qualitative studies, greater focus on guiding students in research activities s, especially in manuscript writing and publication. The outcomes of this study could provide valuable insights for dental schools seeking to improve their undergraduate research activities.

Can a large language model create acceptable dental board-style examination questions? A cross-sectional prospective study

Background/purposeNumerous studies have shown that large language models (LLMs) can score above the passing grade on various board examinations. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate national dental board-style examination questions created by an LLM versus those created by human experts using item analysis. Materials and methodsThis study was conducted in June 2024 and included senior dental students (n = 30) who participated voluntarily. An LLM, ChatGPT 4o, was used to generate 44 national dental board-style examination questions based on textbook content. Twenty questions for the LLM set were randomly selected after removing false questions. Two experts created another set of 20 questions based on the same content and in the same style as the LLM. Participating students simultaneously answered a total of 40 questions divided into two sets using Google Forms in the classroom. The responses were analyzed to assess difficulty, discrimination index, and distractor efficiency. Statistical comparisons were performed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test or linear-by-linear association test, with a confidence level of 95%. ResultsThe response rate was 100%. The median difficulty indices of the LLM and human set were 55.00% and 50.00%, both within the range of “excellent” range. The median discrimination indices were 0.29 for the LLM set and 0.14 for the human set. Both sets had a median distractor efficiency of 80.00%. The differences in all criteria were not statistically significant (P > 0.050). ConclusionThe LLM can create national board-style examination questions of equivalent quality to those created by human experts.

Effect of 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation system on the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training of senior dental undergraduates

BackgroundThe objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation system on the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training of senior dental undergraduates.MethodsThe 3D printed teeth were manufactured based on the micro-CT data of an extracted lower first molar. Ninety-eight senior dental undergraduate students were required to finish the access cavity preparation of lower first molar within 20 min on plastic and 3D printed teeth on the manikin system as well as on a virtual simulation machine respectively with randomly selected sequences. Expert dentists scored the operated teeth. The scores from the virtual simulation system were also recorded. All the scores were analyzed and compared. Following the procedure, two questionnaires were sent to students to further evaluate the feelings and optimal training sequence.ResultsNo significant differences were found between plastic and 3D printed teeth scores, while virtual simulation achieved a valid/invalid area removal ratio of 96.86% ± 5.08% and 3.97% ± 1.85%, respectively. Most students found plastic teeth training the easiest and favored the three-training combination (36.36%). 71.42% of the students thought the virtual simulation training should be put at the first place of the three trainings. Over 80% of students agreed with incorporating 3D printed teeth and virtual simulation into their routine training courses. In addition, the general advantages and disadvantages of the virtual simulation system and 3D printed teeth training received almost equal recognition by students.ConclusionsVirtual simulation system training + plastic teeth training + 3D printed teeth training might be the optimal training sequence. Virtual simulation system training could not completely replace the traditional training methods on the manikin system at the moment. With further modifications, 3D printed teeth could be expected to replace the plastic teeth for the pre-clinical access cavity preparation training.

How reliable is the artificial intelligence product large language model ChatGPT in orthodontics?

To evaluate the reliability of information produced by the artificial intelligence-based program ChatGPT in terms of accuracy and relevance, as assessed by orthodontists, dental students, and individuals seeking orthodontic treatment. Frequently asked and curious questions in four basic areas related to orthodontics were prepared and asked in ChatGPT (Version 4.0), and answers were evaluated by three different groups (senior dental students, individuals seeking orthodontic treatment, orthodontists). Questions asked in these basic areas of orthodontics were about: clear aligners (CA), lingual orthodontics (LO), esthetic braces (EB), and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The answers were evaluated by the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN) scale. The total mean DISCERN score for answers on CA for students was 51.7 ± 9.38, for patients was 57.2 ± 10.73 and, for orthodontists was 47.4 ± 4.78 (P = .001). Comparison of GQS scores for LO among groups: students (3.53 ± 0.78), patients (4.40 ± 0.72), and orthodontists (3.63 ± 0.72) (P < .001). Intergroup comparison of ChatGPT evaluations about TMD was examined in terms of the DISCERN scale, with the highest value given in the patients group (57.83 ± 11.47) and lowest value in the orthodontist group (45.90 ± 11.84). When information quality evaluation about EB was examined, it GQS scores were >3 in all three groups (students: 3.50 ± 0.78; patients: 4.17 ± 0.87; orthodontists: 3.50 ± 0.82). ChatGPT has significant potential in terms of usability for patient information and education in the field of orthodontics if it is developed and necessary updates are made.

Self-assessment of professional competence and influential factors among dental students.

Competency-based education is recognized for evaluating dental students' knowledge and skills. However, practical management training, which is the hands-on education and experience in managing operations and patient interactions, does not align fully with this framework. This study aims to assess professional competence and related factors among dental students using self-assessment, contributing to dental education literature, and identifying areas for improvement. A cross-sectional study included 50 total senior dental students from a top-ranked dental school. With a response rate of 100%, data were collected using a structured questionnaire with three sections: personal information, self-assessment of professional competency, and factors influencing competency. Statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics and tests like Chi-square and ANOVA, analyzed the data. The average self-reported professional competence score was 71.15 with a standard deviation of 3.05. Associations between age, gender, grade point average (GPA), and self-reported professional competence were assessed, with no significant links found (p>0.05). Influential factors included interaction with clinical instructors (69.24%) and interest in dentistry (67.03%). No significant differences in self-reported professional competence were observed among students residing on-campus versus off-campus. Age, gender, and GPA do not significantly impact dental students' self-reported professional competence. Positive interaction with instructors and interest in dentistry contribute to skill development. Practical experience and effective educational relationships are crucial. Dental education institutions should improve clinical competence by fostering strong student-instructor relationships, increasing hands-on clinical training, and fostering student interest in dentistry.

Knowledge of and Attitude Toward Preventive Care Among Iraqi Dentists and Senior Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Acquiring knowledge and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for dental care providers to offer optimal dental services. Dental professionals are expected to follow preventive dentistry principles to ensure the best oral health maintenance for their patients, as prevention is a key component of public health initiatives. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes toward preventive dental care among Iraqi dentists and senior dental students. A cross-sectional study, conducted from June to August 2023, involved 876 Iraqi dentists and 587 senior dental students in Baghdad, utilizing a physically paper-based self-administered questionnaire. Participants' level of knowledge was assessed based on a 5-point Likert scale to 12 statements on preventive dental care. Their attitudes were inquired by selecting one option from a 7-point Likert scale on four pairs of bipolar adjectives describing preventive dentistry. Higher scores were considered more accurate knowledge and more positive attitudes. Statistical evaluation included the Chi-square test and regression analysis. In total, data from 841 dentists and 567 students were analyzed (response rate: 96%). Around 90% of dentists (N=745) and students (N=502) acknowledged the impact of sugar, sealant, and water fluoridation on dental caries, but about 80% of dentists (N=662) and students (N=446)undervalued the role of fluoridated toothpaste. Women (OR=1.4, 95% CI: 1.02-2.1) and dentists, within one year of their graduation (OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.5), exhibited higher levels of knowledge. More favorable attitudes towards preventive dentistry were associated with a higher level of knowledge among dentists (OR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.2-2.3). Regarding dental students, those from private dental schools showed higher scores of knowledge than their counterparts from public schools (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.3-3.4). The majority of participants held the belief that preventive dentistry is beneficial for the community but just about 60% of dentists (N=477) and students (N=300)exhibited a positive attitude toward the economic advantages of preventive dentistry for dentists, as well as the ease of engaging in preventive dental practices. The dentists and dental students in this study demonstrated satisfactory knowledge and a favorable attitude toward most aspects of preventive dentistry. However, deficiencies were noted in certain areas, such as the application of topical fluoride for preventing dental caries, as well as a substantial proportion of individuals who lacked a positive perspective on the economic benefits of preventive dentistry. Hence, there is a clear need for educational interventions during their undergraduate training and postgraduate continuing education to enhance their knowledge levels and cultivate a more positive attitude towards preventive dentistry.

Knowledge about dental care in patients with head and neck cancer among senior dental school students: a cross-sectional descriptive study

BackgroundThe dentist's central role in treating head and neck cancer patients is to care for the patient’s oral cavity before, during, and after radio/chemotherapy. This research aimed to determine dental students' knowledge about head and neck cancer patients’ dental care.MethodsOne hundred and four fifth and sixth-year dental students participated in this cross-sectional descriptive study. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that collected demographic information (gender, year of study) and four questions consisting of attendance to courses or workshops, passing a dedicated course at the university, willing to participate in a course or workshop on the treatment of head and neck cancer patients and self-evaluating information about the treatment of head and neck cancer patients. Final part 36 questions about oral and dental care for head and neck cancer patients before, after, and during treatment. The data were analyzed with SPSS 26 statistical software and using t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression at the 0.05 significance level.ResultsMost of the participants were in their sixth year (48.9%). A total of 48.1% of the people reported that their information about dental treatments in patients with head and neck cancer was bad. 85% of participants agreed with the necessity of evaluating the patient's mouth and teeth before starting the treatment. The lowest percentage of correct answers was related to the ideal duration of tooth extraction and a poor prognosis before the start of cancer treatment. The regression analysis revealed a significant relationship between years of education, willingness to participate in courses, and students’ knowledge evaluation and knowledge.ConclusionThe findings showed that students’ awareness of oral and dental treatment and care for patients with head and neck cancer is insufficient. It is recommended that teaching staff pay more attention to the lack of knowledge and effort to educate students by holding special courses and workshops.

Readiness for clinical practice: Self-perceived confidence of final year dental students in Turkey - A multi-institutional study.

The primary aim of undergraduate dental education is to prepare dental students for independent dental practice and to enable them to provide safe and effective dental care. This study aimed to investigate the self-perceived preparedness of senior dental undergraduate students in Turkey. Purposive sampling was used to recruit final-year dental students from 10 dental institutions offering undergraduate dental programs in Turkey. Student preparedness was assessed using a previously validated dental preparedness assessment scale based on 50 items encompassing core clinical skills, cognitive attributes, and behavioral skills. The research instrument was then translated into Turkish. The R statistical environment for Windows was used for the data analysis. Responses were provided by 272 students (156 women and 116 men; 57% and 43%, respectively) across 10 different universities. The mean score of the participants was 75.68 with slightly higher scores for men compared to women (77.35 vs. 74.46 respectively). However, independent t-tests showed that the scores did not differ significantly between women and men. This study evaluated the self-perceived preparedness for dental practice of final-year students from 10 universities in Turkey. Although the results showed several areas of weakness, the scores of self-perceived preparedness of Turkish students were comparable to those reported in Europe and Asia. These findings can be used to inform future curriculum development to support students in consolidating their learning in perceived areas of weakness.

Diagnosis Ability Evaluation of TMJ Condylar Disorders of Panoramic Radiographs in Senior Dental Students

Introduction: The temporomandibular joint is a unique and complex joint in the human body due to anatomical and functional reasons. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the knowledge of the senior dentistry students of Yazd Dental School about temporomandibular joint radiographic changes in panoramic images in 2022-2023. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive analytical study was conducted with the participation of 59 senior dentistry students. After obtaining the consent of the students and collecting their background information, a questionnaire containing 14 questions was presented to the students with the aim of examining the students' ability to distinguish between normal, dislocation, hypoplasia, hyperplasia, osteophyte and condylar erosion appearance. Finally, the descriptive data were presented in the form of numbers and percentages in the form of a table. Data analysis was done with SPSS version16 and T-test. The significance level of the tests was considered less than 0.05. Results: The results showed that there was no significant difference in students' ability score according to their gender and type of entry (national-international) (P&gt;0.05). The grade of students according to general point average (GPA) showed a significant difference (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, and considering the importance and high prevalence of TMJ disorders, senior dentistry students in Yazd City did not have acceptable knowledge about radiographic changes in the TMJ joint.

Comparison of knowledge, awareness, and behaviors toward oral cancer among dental students and dentists: an online cross-sectional questionnaire in Türkiye

ObjectiveThis cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study evaluated the knowledge, awareness, and behaviors of dentists and senior dental students regarding oral cancer (OC).Materials and methodsThis study included 168 dentists and senior dental students who had completed all theoretical educations and clinical practices. An online survey was administered to all participants to assess their awareness of the risk factors for OC, clinical knowledge, and behaviors. The participants’ demographic characteristics and knowledge of OC were analyzed.ResultsOf the participants, 48.8% were female and 51.2% were male. Their mean age was 27.04 ± 5.56 years (range: 21–51). In addition, 59.5% were dentists, and 40.5% were senior dental students. The dentists’ mean time since graduation was 6.38 ± 5.64 years (range: 1–27). Routine oral mucosa examination for OC was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05). Among all participants, 33% of dentists and 51.5% of senior dental students had poor knowledge of OC-related or possibly predisposing factors. Routine evaluation of OC-related and predisposing risk factors, including human papillomavirus infection, smoking, alcohol use, trauma-related non-healing oral lesions caused by long-term incompatible prostheses, and poor oral hygiene, was significantly more frequent among the dentists than the senior dental students (p < 0.05).ConclusionEducating dental students about a more comprehensive oral examination and early diagnosis of OC would help overcome the current lack of adequate knowledge and attitudes in OC prevention and early detection. A core curriculum compatible with the global standards on OC should be provided to dental students.

Educational Approach: Application of SWOT Analysis for Assessing Entrepreneurial Goals in Senior Dental Students.

The SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis is a framework used to evaluate a company's competitive position and to develop strategic planning. In the competitive dental sector, it can aid dentists in identifying and analyzing internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats. This study focuses on senior dental students of the Department of Dentistry at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece, aiming to scrutinize their use of SWOT analysis and assess its application as a tool for evaluating entrepreneurial goals and making career decisions in dental entrepreneurship. The research sample comprises 116 senior dental students (N1) in the final undergraduate year of their dental education, with data collection accomplished through the administration of an e-questionnaire during the obligatory course of "Organization and management of dental practices" in December 2023. The data extracted from the SWOT analysis encompass internal and external factors, gender distinctions, and outcomes derived from Stepwise Binary Logistic Regression concerning predictor markers. The results from the SWOT analysis of 114 valid questionnaires (N2), revealed that participants identified communication skills (50%) and organization skills (49.10%) as their primary strengths, followed by favorable personal traits contributing to goal success (36%). Weaknesses predominantly centered around emotional and personal traits like anxiety (41.20%) and other characteristics, alongside practical challenges such as lack of initial capital (24.60%). Main opportunities included collaboration with experienced dentists (33.30%) and access to training programs (27.20%), while economic instability in Greece (77.20%) and the saturated dentist profession (26.30%) were perceived as significant threats. Gender differences were notable, with female dentists more likely to report organization skills as a strength and anxiety as a weakness. Values such as industriousness, persistence, and ethics were commonly shared, with actions focusing on training programs (57.9%) and gaining experience with experienced dentists (29.8%). Cluster analysis identified two subgroups, with one emphasizing utilizing all available options (n = 49) and the other prioritizing on gaining professional skills and experience (n = 65). Logistic regression indicated that participants valuing industriousness were less likely to explore all available options, while those recognizing personal traits were more likely to do so. The study's outcomes highlight key predictor factors linked to a proactive orientation in career decision-making among senior dental students. These insights offer valuable implications for educational institutions and career counselors.

A Detailed Comparison regarding the of Knowledge Level of Final Year Dental Students of Isfahan Azad University with Other Statistical Communities in Other Studies, in Relation to Squamous Cell Cancer of the Oral Cavity

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Introduction: Oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC) constitutes 90% of oral cancers, the most important factors of which are smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. Early detection of cancerous and precancerous lesions and subsequent referrals are the most important factors in reducing OSCC mortality. The purpose of this study is to compare the knowledge level of senior dental students of Isfahan Azad University regarding etiology, prognosis and treatment of OSCC lesions with three other statistical communities in other statistical populations( dental students in different years of studying, the graduates , and the doctors).&#x0D; Methods: The present study was conducted in the academic year 2021-2022 on 82 senior students of the Faculty of Dentistry in Islamic Azad University, Isfahan Branch (Khorasgan) using census sampling method. The type of study was cross-sectional and descriptive-analytical. A researcher-made questionnaire, whose validity and reliability was calculated was distributed to the students by the researcher in person. Data analyses were done and statistical tests were examined at a significance level of 0.05. Finally, other studies with the same statistical communities were also examined through Google scholar, Scopus, Sid, Proquest and PubMed databases and the results (general and detailed) were compared with the present study.&#x0D; Results: Of 82 students participating in the study, 47/9% were females, 80/5% were unmarried, and 74/4% were native people. The average score of awareness regarding the etiology dimension was 2/5 out of 3, while in the prognosis and treatment level, it was estimated as 3/44 out of 7. In addition, a significant difference was not observed between the average knowledge of students in both etiology and treatment dimensions, and the variables of gender, marital status, and residence status .&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the knowledge level of senior students in the Faculty of Dentistry in Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, as in many statistical communities in other studies, is far from the ideal level. In order to improve these conditions, it is suggested that students have more contact with patients and oral lesions during the course of their studies. Moreover, more retraining courses (virtual or face-to-face) are recommended in the field of malignant and premalignant oral lesions.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Readiness for clinical practice: Self-perceived confidence of final year dental students in Turkey - A multi-institutional study

Introduction The primary aim of undergraduate dental education is to prepare dental students for independent dental practice and to enable them to provide safe and effective dental care. This study aimed to investigate the self-perceived preparedness of senior dental undergraduate students in Turkey. Methods Purposive sampling was used to recruit final-year dental students from 10 dental institutions offering undergraduate dental programs in Turkey. Student preparedness was assessed using a previously validated dental preparedness assessment scale based on 50 items encompassing core clinical skills, cognitive attributes, and behavioral skills. The research instrument was then translated into Turkish. The R statistical environment for Windows was used for the data analysis. Results Responses were provided by 272 students (156 women and 116 men; 57% and 43%, respectively) across 10 different universities. The mean score of the participants was 75.68 with slightly higher scores for men compared to women (77.35 vs. 74.46 respectively). However, independent t-tests showed that the scores did not differ significantly between women and men. Conclusions This study evaluated the self-perceived preparedness for dental practice of final-year students from 10 universities in Turkey. Although the results showed several areas of weakness, the scores of self-perceived preparedness of Turkish students were comparable to those reported in Europe and Asia. These findings can be used to inform future curriculum development to support students in consolidating their learning in perceived areas of weakness.

Determining the Ability of Senior Dental Students to Detect Interproximal Caries Using Different Radiographic Techniques.

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic capability of 5th-year students using digital imaging, conventional bitewing (BW) radiographs, and printed film on paper to detect interproximal caries lesions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with senior dental students. Three different radiographs: digital, BW, and printed films on paper were used; thus, nine radiographs, each with a 2-min viewing time, were considered by students along with a questionnaire. A control group of specialists from Prosthodontics and Radiology had finalized the answers prior to conducting the study. The appropriate responses were divided into five categories: R0: Intact surface, R1: Radiolucency in the outer half of enamel, R2: Radiolucency in the inner half of enamel, R3: Radiolucency in the outer half of dentin, and R4: Radiolucency in the inner half of dentin. Students' responses were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and a t-test. Results: Ethics for the study was obtained from the institutional committee (Reg No: BM19/9/8). When compared with the control group using ANOVA testing, the results showed good detection accuracy with a success rate of ~64 accuracy. There was a significant difference in the outcomes when detecting the presence of the caries lesion between the three diagnostic techniques (p > 0.001). In detecting the size of the carious lesion, the students' ability was recorded as poor. The highest average for detecting the presence of the carious lesion was correspondent to the printed film on paper method. Conclusions: Senior dental students have shown good accuracy in detecting the presence but not the size of interproximal caries on all radiographs viewed. Clinical Significance: Teachings and availability of diverse radiological diagnostic techniques ensured a reasonable level of understanding and use of the diagnostic caries risk assessment methodologies as required in restorative treatment planning.

Level of confidence in management of medically compromised patients among senior dental students and interns in Madinah

Background: Planning for dental treatment for medically compromised patients (MCP) generally involves understanding the nature of the patient\&amp;apos;s condition and its influence on their general and dental health, response to treatment, and post-treatment healing. Dental senior students and interns need to be confident about formulating a treatment plan to treat MCP with impaired health status, like systemic diseases and immune-compromised patients who require modification of their dental treatment according to their condition. This study aims to assess the knowledge, confidence, and ability of senior dental students and interns to manage MCP at Taibah University, College of Dentistry, Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online-based self-administrated questionnaire consisting of 26 close-ended questions. It was divided into three sections dealing with demographic data, knowledge, and confidence about the management of MCP. Results: The study group comprised 82 participants. Most participants were males, 52.4%, and half were senior dental students. Most participants reported that they have sufficient knowledge about the dental management of MCP. Only 45.1% agreed that evaluating risk factors is necessary for MCP and think the patient\&amp;apos;s postoperative outcome depends on the patient\&amp;apos;s medical status. However, 50% were less confident in dealing with MCP, while 87.8% may need more training to handle MCP. Conclusions: The present study revealed a need to enhance confidence and knowledge about managing MCP among dental students and interns. Diagnosing complex cases and choosing a suitable treatment regimen is vital to reducing possible adverse side effects and achieving treatment outcomes. Hence, further training to improve the management of MCP in dental settings is essential

Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Graduates: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The pandemic-induced physical closure of educational institutions led to challenges for senior dental students that might affect their psychological status. This study aimed to assess stress, anxiety, and subjective worries among dental interns post-COVID-19. Methodology A self-structured questionnaire was sent to Alexandria University and Taibah University dental interns. The questionnaire included sociodemographic data, self-reported comorbidities, behavioral risk factors, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item (GAD-7) scale, and future subjective worries regarding the dental profession post-COVID-19. Results A total of 129 interns participated, with the majority (79.1%) being females. Overall, 90.7% were unmarried, 80.6% lived with a family, 93.8% were free from systemic comorbidities, 82.17% were satisfied with their current life, and 63.6% felt positive quite often. K-10 distress levels were reported as very high (38%) and high (33.3%), and perceived satisfaction with current social life was significantly associated with moderate-to-high distress levels. Feeling positive about life quite often was significantly associated with very high distress levels. Mild GAD-7 anxiety levels were reported in 40.3% and were significantly associated with females, who perceived positive satisfaction with their current social life and felt positive about life. Most agreed that their profession would be risky, their ability to perform their job to the best would be jeopardized, and they would need extra precautions in clinical training post-COVID-19; however, they disagree with postponing their training until COVID-19 cases declined entirely. Conclusions Dental interns were affected by the lockdown, especially female interns. Psychological therapy is advised for stressed dental students.

Awareness and knowledge of endo-perio lesions among fifth year students and interns at King Saud Dental College: a questionnaire-based study

Background: This study aims to assess the diagnostic knowledge and understanding of endo-perio lesions among senior dental students and interns enrolled at King Saud College of Dentistry. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted using Google Forms. The questionnaire included two radiographic case images and assessed participants' experience with endo-perio lesions, confidence in diagnosis, and familiarity with treatment approaches. The study included 200 participants, consisting of 140 interns and 60 5th-year students. Results: The majority of participants (61%) reported encountering endo-perio lesions in their clinics. Among the participants, 50% expressed confidence in diagnosing these lesions. Intern students demonstrated higher knowledge and awareness of endo-perio lesions compared to 5th-year students. Statistically significant differences were observed in the awareness of endo-perio lesions and confidence in diagnosis between the two groups. However, both groups showed room for improvement in their diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Conclusions: The findings indicate a need for enhanced education and training in this area, particularly for 5th-year students. Incorporating comprehensive theoretical education, clinical case management, and continuing education courses may help improve students' diagnostic skills and treatment outcomes for endo-perio lesions.