Level of Self-Perceived Knowledge Regarding Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Surgery among Dental Undergraduates and Graduates in Saudi Arabia

Mymensingh Med J. 2022 Jul;31(3):835-840.

Abstract

For evaluating the level of self-confidence of dental undergraduate, graduates and postgraduates regarding Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Surgery (OMFS and DS) and to assess the teaching curriculum at Saudi Dental Institutes using a validated modified survey form developed by the Association of British Academic and Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons (ABAOMS). The undergraduate students (level 11 and 12), graduates and postgraduates with more than two years of experience after completing education from Saudi Arabian Dental Institutes responded to the questions of modified ABAOMS survey form assessing various areas of OMFS and DS curriculum. It was a cross-sectional study, conducted in Saudi Arabia from June 2021 to September 2021. In order to assess the difference between the respondents independent sample t-test was applied. Further to evaluate the correlation between confidence levels for carrying out OMFS and DS procedures and curriculum Spearman's rho test was applied. Majority of the respondents in these three groups expressed of having sufficient knowledge to undertake their own clinical practice. In general the responses were favorable except for the low confidence level in performing minor surgical procedures. It can be concluded from the responses to modified ABAOMS questionnaire displayed the level of confidence in taking independent clinical practice, carrying out minor oral surgical procedures and identifying malignant and non-malignant lesions. Respondents of all three levels felt comfortable in extractions using the surgical forceps or elevators, removal of broken down roots, and recognizing the potentially malignant and malignant lesions of the human oral cavity.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Education, Dental* / methods
  • Humans
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Students
  • Surgery, Oral* / education