[Profile of first year dental students in Tunisia]

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess social conditions, school history, professional choices and oral health status of first-year dental students 1998/1999. We included 155 Tunisian students, 18-22 years old. There was a higher proportion of female students [‎58%]‎ whose average age [‎18.9 years]‎ was younger than the males. We found that 79% came from urban environments and 41% from middle socioeconomic background. Also 48% had parents who had a high level of education. Dental studies were the first choice for 50% of the students and they were looking for prestige and security. Concerning oral heath status, 88% of the students had periodontal problems and 70% had caries. More information for students about the options available to them at university and greater efforts from teachers to motivate students in oral hygiene are needed