Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the differences in self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviour between preclinical and clinical dental students in among Dental Students at Qassim University.

Method: A cross-sectional study through survey was carried out in Qassim University dental clinics during the academic year 2020-2021, among dental students of Qassim University, All the 100 participants undergone a selfadministered questionnaire survey followed by a dental check-up to access the dental health and oral hygiene status.

Result: Caries prevalence revealed mean DMFT 5.99 teeth. The significant differences were found in mean of total DMFT score and its ‘Decayed’ component. Gingival index score was 0.72 ± 0.37 which indicate good gingival condition. There’s a highly statistical significant difference between the male and female students (p>0.001). Plaque index score was 0.92 ± 0.33, 72% of the students had good oral hygiene. 86% reported they brush at least once a day. There significant difference between male and female students (p=0.001). Flossing was adopted by 59% of students. Female students reported significantly higher frequencies (p=0.005)

Conclusions: Dental students should have a comprehensive program, including their self-care regimes, starting from their first year of education.