Assessment of Oral Histology Knowledge and Its Application in Clinical Orthodontics, Operative Dentistry, Oral Medicine, and Oral Surgery

Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge of oral histology among fifth-year dental students in Iraq and evaluate its relevance to various clinical dental disciplines, including orthodontics, operative dentistry, oral medicine, and oral surgery. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to May 2024 among dental students from both public and private institutions in Iraq. Participants were recruited through targeted online advertisements on platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Results: The results compare clinical and basic knowledge between younger and older dental students. Younger students scored higher in understanding basic concepts like structural changes in the periodontal ligament, bone remodeling, tooth eruption enamel structure, cavity design and surgical interventions. However, older students excelled in clinical areas such as maxillofacial development, orthodontic appliances, and developmental anomalies. Conclusion: This study provides insights into the perceived value of oral histology education among dental students and its application in clinical practice. The findings may be encouraging early clinical involvement while reinforcing basic science concepts can lead to a more well-rounded and confident dental workforce.