Beyond The Chair: Exploring the Evolving Land...

Beyond The Chair: Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Dentistry

Author Name : Abrapudi Sruthi Shanmukhi, Dande Indirmai, K. Sravanthi, Neha Nallapu, Vyshnavi Ambati

ABSTRACT This study investigates the awareness and understanding of dental students in India regarding the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program in the United States. With a cross-sectional survey involving 435 participants from various colleges in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it evaluates knowledge levels and demographic factors influencing awareness. Results indicate a significant gap in understanding, with only a small percentage demonstrating high knowledge. While gender does not influence knowledge levels, there's a notable difference among students based on their year of study, with interns exhibiting higher awareness. Moreover, misconceptions persist regarding the duration of the DDS program and the requirements for international practice. Findings underscore the necessity for enhanced educational interventions, especially targeting lower-year students, to better prepare them for international career opportunities in dentistry. This research, conducted in 2021, highlights the need for ongoing updates in educational curricula to align with evolving regulations and requirements in the field of dentistry.