Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Dental Students Regarding Infection Control and Emerging Communicable Diseases

Abstract

Infection control is a fundamental component of dental education, particularly in thecontext of emerging and re-emerging communicable diseases that pose significant risks toboth patients and healthcare providers. Dental students, as future oral healthcareprofessionals, must possess adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and appropriatepractices (KAP) to effectively prevent disease transmission within clinical settings. Thisscholarly article examines the current status of knowledge, attitudes, and practices ofdental students regarding infection control measures and emerging communicablediseases. It highlights gaps between theoretical understanding and clinical application,explores factors influencing compliance with standard precautions, and emphasizes therole of curriculum design, training, and institutional support. The findings underscore theneed for continuous education, evidence-based training, and robust monitoring systems tostrengthen infection control competencies and preparedness for future public healthchallenges.