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Ethics code: IR.ABZUMS.REC.1402.256
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Mohiti A, Khazaee M. Investigating the self-assessed confidence of senior dental students in performing general dental procedures at Alborz school of dentistry during the 2024–2025 academic year. aumj 2026; 15 (2) : 4
URL: http://aums.abzums.ac.ir/article-1-1965-en.html
URL: http://aums.abzums.ac.ir/article-1-1965-en.html
1- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine, School of Dentistry, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
2- Student School of Dentistry, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran ,mohammadkhazaee25@gmail.com
2- Student School of Dentistry, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran ,
Abstract: (191 Views)
Introduction: Self-assessment is an important professional competency that enables dental students to identify their strengths and weaknesses and evaluate their readiness to perform clinical procedures. Confidence in performing general dental treatments is an essential component of clinical competence and professional development. This study aimed to assess the self-reported confidence of senior dental students in performing general dental procedures at Alborz School of Dentistry during the 2024–2025 academic year.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 52 final-year dental students using a census sampling method. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics and self-confidence in performing general dental procedures across domains of basic scientific knowledge, clinical information gathering, diagnosis and treatment planning, and clinical treatment and evaluation. Self-assessment scores were compared with students' scores in the Comprehensive Treatment Course I. Data were analyzed using appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical tests in SPSS version 24, with a significance level of P < 0.05. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Alborz University of Medical Sciences (IR.ABZUMS.REC.1402.256) and conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.
Results: The mean total self-assessment score was 346.34 ± 26.26 out of a maximum possible score of 450. Participants older than 30 years demonstrated significantly higher scores in basic scientific knowledge than those younger than 25 years and those aged 25–30 years (P = 0.03). A positive and statistically significant correlation was found between the total self-confidence score and the Comprehensive Treatment Course I score (r = 0.587, P < 0.001).
Conclusion: Final-year dental students demonstrated a generally favorable level of self-confidence in performing general dental procedures. Although students reported greater confidence in clinical diagnosis and patient management, deficiencies in theoretical knowledge and fundamental concepts were identified. Reinforcement of basic sciences and foundational dental concepts during the final years of dental education may enhance students’ clinical competence and improve their ability to manage patients effectively.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 52 final-year dental students using a census sampling method. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics and self-confidence in performing general dental procedures across domains of basic scientific knowledge, clinical information gathering, diagnosis and treatment planning, and clinical treatment and evaluation. Self-assessment scores were compared with students' scores in the Comprehensive Treatment Course I. Data were analyzed using appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical tests in SPSS version 24, with a significance level of P < 0.05. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Alborz University of Medical Sciences (IR.ABZUMS.REC.1402.256) and conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.
Results: The mean total self-assessment score was 346.34 ± 26.26 out of a maximum possible score of 450. Participants older than 30 years demonstrated significantly higher scores in basic scientific knowledge than those younger than 25 years and those aged 25–30 years (P = 0.03). A positive and statistically significant correlation was found between the total self-confidence score and the Comprehensive Treatment Course I score (r = 0.587, P < 0.001).
Conclusion: Final-year dental students demonstrated a generally favorable level of self-confidence in performing general dental procedures. Although students reported greater confidence in clinical diagnosis and patient management, deficiencies in theoretical knowledge and fundamental concepts were identified. Reinforcement of basic sciences and foundational dental concepts during the final years of dental education may enhance students’ clinical competence and improve their ability to manage patients effectively.
Article number: 4
Keywords: Education, Dental, Self Assessment, Self Efficacy, Clinical Competence, Students, Dental, Professional Competence
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/10/30 | Accepted: 2025/12/30 | Published: 2026/06/06
Received: 2025/10/30 | Accepted: 2025/12/30 | Published: 2026/06/06
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