Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Infectious Diseases Among Dental Students and Dentists in the Post-COVID Era: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Objective: Dental professionals are routinely exposed to infectious agents through contact with blood, saliva, and aerosols. This cross-sectional survey aimed to evaluate and compare knowledge, attitudes, and self-reported practices related to infectious diseases among dental students and practicing dentists in the post-COVID era. Methods: This web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and March 2024 at a single dental faculty. Fourth- and fifth-year dental students and practicing dentists were invited to participate. A 30-item questionnaire assessed knowledge of infectious disease transmission and immunological markers (Questions Q1–Q19), as well as attitudes and self-reported practices toward patients with infectious diseases (Q20–Q30). Descriptive statistics were calculated, and comparisons between groups were performed using Pearson’s chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests (α = 0.05). Internal consistency of the questionnaire was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.81 for knowledge items and 0.88 for attitude/practice items). Results: A total of 221 dental students and 33 dentists were included in the final analysis. Both groups demonstrated high awareness of respiratory transmission routes for COVID-19 and influenza. In contrast, recognition of bloodborne transmission pathways was limited, with approximately half of participants identifying blood contact and blood-contaminated instruments as potential sources of infection. Significant differences were observed between students and dentists in the interpretation of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies, with dentists more frequently associating IgG positivity with prior infection (p = 0.009) and immunity (p < 0.001). Cautious behavior toward treating patients with infectious diseases was common in both groups, whereas reluctance to provide treatment and lower self-perceived knowledge were more frequently reported among students. Conclusions: Despite adequate awareness of respiratory infection transmission, important deficiencies persist in bloodborne pathogen knowledge, serological interpretation, and confidence in managing infected patients, particularly among dental students. These findings underscore the need for targeted, practice-oriented infection control education that integrates immunological principles and hands-on training to enhance clinical preparedness in the post-COVID era.