Evaluation of Self‐Reported Confidence Levels of Final Year Dentistry Students at the University of Queensland in Oral Surgery and General Medicine

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to investigate the self‐reported confidence levels of final year dental students at the University of Queensland, Australia, in oral surgery procedures and general medicine to locate gaps in knowledge and aid in improving the dental curriculum. Methods A pre‐validated survey was distributed to all final year dental students at the University of Queensland in November 2022 and 2023. The survey included sections on basic demographics and assessed mean confidence levels in performing oral surgery procedures and managing medical conditions. Results The study's response rates were 98.8% (2022) and 91.5% (2023) respectively. Across both cohorts in oral surgery procedures, students were most confident in performing simple extractions and least confident in raising a flap. For managing medical conditions, students felt most confident managing diabetes and least confident in managing patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The 2023 cohort displayed higher mean confidence levels across all aspects compared to the 2022 cohort, likely due to clinical exposure. Conclusion This study highlights the positive correlation between clinical experience and confidence levels among final‐year dental students. Addressing areas with low confidence levels can help close gaps in training.