Impact of clinical training on oral health attitudes and behaviors among undergraduate dental hygiene students at Al-Baha University: a cross-sectional study using the Hiroshima University-Dental Behavioral Inventory

Abstract Background: Oral health behaviors and attitudes are critical for dental hygiene students, who serve as future educators and role models in preventive dentistry. This study assesses the impact of clinical training on the oral health attitudes and practices of undergraduate dental hygiene students at Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia. Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 involving 102 male students using the Hiroshima University-Dental Behavioral Inventory. Participants were categorized into preclinical and clinical groups. Results: Clinical students demonstrated significantly higher Hiroshima University-Dental Behavioral Inventory scores (6.9 ± 1.8) than preclinical students (6.0 ± 1.6, P = 0.043), indicating more positive oral health behaviors. Significant differences included more frequent self-monitoring and reduced use of hard-bristled tooth brushes among clinical students. Logistic regression revealed that clinical students were less likely to report outdated beliefs and behaviors. Conclusion: Clinical training enhances dental hygiene students’ attitudes and practices, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals to elevate healthcare quality and human capital. Early integration of clinical exposure and preventive education in curricula is recommended to cultivate health-conscious, community-oriented dental professionals capable of advancing national wellness initiatives. As this study was conducted exclusively among male students – reflecting the absence of a female dental hygiene section at Al-Baha University – generalization to female students should be made with caution.