Knowledge of dental students on the identification of oral cancer

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the knowledge and perceptions of dental students about oral cancer in the four dental schools in the state of Espirito Santo. Material and Methods: A 16-question questionnaire was given to the participants after agreeing to informed consent. All participants were students enrolled in the last two semesters of dental school. Results: The results showed that among 196 participants, 94.9% believed they were responsible for the diagnosis and prevention of oral cancer, 67.3% considered their level of knowledge on the subject insufficient or moderately sufficient and 53.6% did not recognize with precision the main risk factors for oral cancer. Conclusion: These findings reaffirm the importance of proper instruction in diagnosing oral cancer in dental school in order for graduates to be able to properly diagnose and prevent the disease.