Knowledge On Tooth Development Among Undergraduates - A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background : Tooth development is a very complex process involving many growth factors. The morphological stages of tooth development includes bud stage, cap stage, bell stage and advanced bell stage.

Aim: The aim of the  present study is to assess the  knowledge on tooth development among undergraduates.

Materials and methods : This is a questionnaire based cross sectional study performed among 113 dental UG students in a private dental college. The data was collected and analysed using SPSS software version 23.

Result: In this study, 26% were first year, 31% were second year, 18% were third year, 2% were fourth year and 23% were interns.  An  association graph was done  between the year of study  and the number of responses for the question. Majority (23%) were the second years who were aware about the development of teeth  when compared to first (19%), third (2%), fourth year (1%) and interns (8%). Pearson chi square test was done and the p value is 0.003  and hence it is statistically significant. 

Conclusion: The second year undergraduate dental students had much knowledge about tooth development compared to first, third, fourth and interns. Further reinforcements with activity based learning can establish better knowledge in the subject among undergraduate dental students.