Oral Health-Related Attitude, Knowledge and Behavior Among Dentistry, Medicine and Pharmacy Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: There is lack of sufficient published data in Türkiye to describe and compare the knowledge and attitudes of students from various faculties regarding their oral healthcare. Aim of this research was to assess and compare self-reported attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors related to oral health among cohort of dentistry, medicine, and pharmacy students, with purpose of increasing awareness of oral and dental health among participants themselves and indirectly within their social circles. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 354 preclinical students from the faculties of dentistry (n=127), medicine (n=113), and pharmacy (n=114). 28-question survey adapted from previous studies assessed oral health attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors. Survey was administered during scheduled class hours to ensure high response rate and consistent participation. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics, with Kolmogorov-Smirnov test applied to assess distribution, and KruskalWallis, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square tests used for group comparisons. Results: Satisfaction with teeth colour and appearance of smiles in photographs showed similar results across all groups. Female students exhibited significantly higher sensitivity towards daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash usage, while male students were more inclined towards smoking (p<0.05). Dentistry students, in particular, demonstrated clear preference for sugarfree chewing gum. Brushing technique held greater importance for dentistry participants compared to other groups. Additionally, individuals with knowledge about interdental cleaning aids were more prevalent in dentistry group. Conclusion: The finding that awareness among dentistry students is higher than that of students from other faculties is noteworthy, as dentistry students receive coursework in the same field.