Preparedness and Anxiety of Dental Students in the Transition from Preclinical to Clinical Practice

Aim This study aimed to investigate the preparedness and anxiety levels of dental students transitioning to clinical practice and to examine the effects of sex, university, and observations. Material and method A total of 182 students (58 males, 124 females) transitioning from preclinic to clinic participated in the study. The survey consisted of sections covering socio-demographic data, students' opinions on their preparedness for clinical practice, anxiety levels measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and confidence levels in various skill areas. Spearman's Rank correlation test was used for correlation analysis, while the Mann Whitney-U test for pairwise group comparisons. Results No differences were found in preparedness between sexes, but males exhibited significantly higher confidence in various dental skills. Conversely, females reported significantly higher levels of state and trait anxiety. State university students (n=48) reported heightened workload expectations and elevated levels of state and trait anxiety. Conversely, private university students (n=134) demonstrated increased confidence and preparedness in dental practice-related knowledge and skills. Students who participated in observations (n=96) had lower preparedness and confidence levels in several dental areas, coupled with higher trait anxiety levels, compared to their peers who did not participate in observations (n=86). Finally, STAI scores were positively correlated with workload, negatively correlated with knowledge, skills, and confidence. Conclusion Sex, school, and observation status have an impact on students' preparedness for clinical education, anxiety, and confidence in their professional abilities. Therefore, assessments and orientation programs that take these aspects into account can benefit students at this time of change.