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Knowledge, Attitude, and Self-Reported Practice Regarding Fissure Sealants Among Senior Dental Students in Tehran University of Medical Sciences Publisher

Summary: Do dental students know enough about fissure sealants? Research found moderate knowledge but weaker attitudes and practices. Improvement in training is essential. #DentalHealth #OralCare

Razavian Z ; Mohebbi SZ ; Zarafshar A ; Fallah PA ; Razeghi S
Authors

Source: Journal of Craniomaxillofacial Research Published:2026


Abstract

Introduction: Dental caries is a prevalent oral disease, and fissure sealants are effective preventive measures. Dental students play a crucial role in influencing public acceptance of this treatment. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and self-reported practice regarding fissure sealants among senior dental students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023. A census sam-pling method was employed to recruit all eligible senior dental students (N = 163). The participants included fifth-and sixth-year dental students from both campuses of the School of Dentistry, TUMS. Data were collected using a validated, anonymous questionnaire comprising four sections: demographics, knowledge (11 questions), attitude (8 questions), and self-reported practice (14 questions). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 via the Mann-Whitney test, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: Out of 163 distributed questionnaires, 117 were completed (response rate: 72%). The participants included 61 (52.1%) males and 56 (47.9%) females. The mean scores were 8.4±1.7 (out of 11) for knowledge, 28.8±3.5 (out of 40) for attitude, and 9.9±1.7 (out of 14) for self-reported practice. Male students showed significantly higher knowledge scores compared to females (P = 0.02). Fifth-year students also scored significantly higher in knowledge than sixth-year students (P = 0.04). A significant positive correlation was found between self-reported practice and both knowledge (P = 0.02) and attitude (P = 0.003). Conclusion: Senior dental students demonstrated an acceptable level of theoretical knowledge regarding fissure sealants. However, their attitude and self-reported practice fell short of expected standards, highlighting the need for educational reinforcement and practical training in the dental curriculum. © 2026 Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
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