Perception of dentistry Among First Year Students from Medical , Paramedical and Dental Profession

Background- Understanding the perception of dentistry among medical, paramedical, and dental students is crucial for fostering interdisciplinary respect, improving collaboration, and addressing prevailing misconceptions about the field. This study aims to assess and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of dentistry among first-year students enrolled in medical, dental, nursing, and pharmacy programs.Materials & Methods- A cross-sectional survey was conducted among first-year students from medical, dental, nursing, and pharmacy programs. A structured questionnaire containing 16 questions was distributed to evaluate students' knowledge of dentistry, their perceptions of its importance within the healthcare system, and their attitude toward pursuing dental careers or collaborating with dental professionals. The collected data was analyzed to identify significant differences in perceptions among the various academic disciplines. Results- Preliminary findings revealed that dental students had a significantly greater understanding of the scope and relevance of dentistry compared to their peers in medical and paramedical fields. Many medical, nursing, and pharmacy students were found to underestimate the complexity and critical role of dentistry within the broader context of healthcare. Common misconceptions included viewing dentistry as less vital profession than other healthcare professions. However, interprofessional exposure positively influenced perceptions across all groups. Conclusions- The study highlights the importance of increasing awareness and understanding of dentistry among non-dental healthcare students. Implementing interprofessional educational initiatives can help bridge existing knowledge gaps, correct misconceptions, and foster a more collaborative and integrated approach to patient care. Strengthening interdisciplinary connections will ultimately benefit both healthcare education and the quality of comprehensive patient management.