The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Effect on Dental Students’ Attitude and Habits About Oral Hygiene

Özişçi Ö., Küçükeşmen H. C.

Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Dergisi, cilt.33, sa.1, ss.21-31, 2026 (TRDizin)

Özet

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the oral hygiene behaviors and associated factors, such as COVID-19 infection history, vaccination status, smoking habits, and gender, among young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 328 participants aged 18–25 years. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire that included demographic information, smoking behavior, COVID-19 history, and oral hygiene practices. Results Of the participants, 56.4% were female, and the mean age was 21.74 ± 2.21 years. A majority (87.8%) reported brushing twice daily, while only 30.5% changed their toothbrush after a COVID-19 infection. Smoking was significantly more prevalent among males (p < 0.001) and was associated with poorer oral hygiene practices. Dental floss and toothbrush cover usage were higher among females (p < 0.001 and p = 0.017, respectively). Participants who had experienced COVID-19 were more likely to adopt postinfection toothbrush replacement (p < 0.001). Most participants (76.8%) believed that good oral hygiene helps reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Conclusion Although oral hygiene awareness was generally high among young adults during the pandemic, important behavioral gaps remain, particularly in post-infection hygiene practices and among smokers. Gender differences in hygiene behavior were notable, with females demonstrating more preventive habits. Public health strategies should promote targeted oral health education focusing on infection prevention and hygiene reinforcement.