Assessment of Dental Students Knowledge and Confidence in Managing Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Background:-Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Given that MS involves various head and neck symptoms, awareness of the condition can assist dental professionals in recognizing the disease, adjusting dental treatment plans, and collaborating with healthcare teams. Therefore, this study aims to assess awareness and knowledge about MS among dental students. Methods:-This is a cross-sectional study conducted among students in the Faculty of Dental Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire including questions on MS knowledge was administered. Statistical analysis will be conducted using SPSS software, with results assessed for significance at ???? < 0.05. Results:-A total of 208 students were enrolled in this study. Dental students generally exhibit a good understanding of multiple sclerosis and show sufficient awareness of its oral manifestations and the dental care required for MS patients. Female students demonstrate greater knowledge than their male counterparts. However, there were no statistically significant differences in general knowledge and awareness of the oral manifestations of MS between the two genders or across different academic levels. When asked about dental management of MS patients fourth-year students and interns provided more correct answers than students at other levels. Finally, all students did not have enough confidence to treat MS patients except for fourth-year students who interestingly showed higher knowledge. Conclusion:-Although overall MS knowledge levels among dental students were sufficient, they lack confidence in treating MS patients.