Knowledge About Histology Of Oral Mucosa Among Undergraduates - A Cross Sectional Survey

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Oral mucosa consists of epithelium and connective tissue. Based on functions, oral mucosa is classified into masticatory mucosa, lining mucosa and specialized mucosa. Based on the type of epithelium, oral mucosa is divided into keratinized mucosa and non-keratinized mucosa. 

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge about histology of oral mucosa among undergraduate students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a questionnaire based cross-sectional study conducted among undergraduates in a private dental college. The survey was conducted among 100 dental students. A self-administered questionnaire of 13 questions was prepared and distributed among dental students through online based survey forms - google forms. 

RESULT:Among 100 students,  53.00% were  male and 47.00% were female. In our study, 54.55% were aware of the layers of non-keratinised epithelium and 33.33% were unaware of the basement membrane. Also, 51.52% were  aware of keratohyalin granules. The association between year of study and response for keratohyalin granules gives a p-value of 0.037. Hence, it is statistically significant. 

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that first year students have more knowledge about oral mucosa when compared to second, third and final year students. The undergraduate students should be allowed to process and stain tissue sections of oral mucosa to incorporate interest and comprehension in them.