Abstract / Summary
Abstract This study aimed to evaluate dental students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding toothbrush contamination and disinfection, and to assess differences according to clinical training level and gender. A total of 1206 dental students (years 1–5) from three dental faculties in Turkey were included. Data were collected through an online questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Chi-square test, independent samples t-test, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for statistical analysis. Of the participants, 767 were preclinical and 439 were clinical students. Mean knowledge, practice, attitude, and total scores were 3.87 ± 0.76, 3.45 ± 1.32, 2.83 ± 0.61, and 10.14 ± 1.86, respectively. Disinfection knowledge was higher in the clinical group ( p = 0.010), whereas disinfection practice was lower ( p = 0.001). The practice rate was significantly higher among students with disinfection knowledge (70.8% vs. 46.2%; p < 0.001) and among those who considered disinfection necessary (57.1% vs. 14.7%; p < 0.001). The most common source of information was social media, and the most frequently reported disinfection method was tap water. Knowledge and positive attitudes do not consistently translate into evidence-based practice among dental students. Although clinical training improves knowledge, it does not independently enhance disinfection behavior. Toothbrush hygiene should therefore be addressed through practice-oriented learning outcomes from the preclinical years.