# Prevalence of Misconceptions and Myths Regarding Oral Health Among Medical and Dental Students in Peshawar, Pakistan

## TL;DR

This study found that many medical and dental students in Peshawar, Pakistan, hold common dental myths, highlighting a need for better dental education.

## Contribution

The study identifies prevalent dental misconceptions among students and links them to their field of study.

## Key findings

- 70% of students believed brushing right after a meal is better for teeth.
- 46% thought eating sugar doesn't affect teeth if one brushes twice daily.
- 38% believed baby teeth extraction doesn't matter as they are replaced.

## Abstract

Background

The aim of study is to assess the prevalence of dental myths and misconceptions among the students of medicine and dentistry in Peshawar, Pakistan, and to gauge the quality of dental education, knowledge, and awareness.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on the current students of medicine and dentistry at Rehman Medical College, Rehman College of Dentistry, Gandhara University, Khyber Medical College, and Khyber College of Dentistry. They were questioned regarding their beliefs in dental misconceptions and myths prevalent in Peshawar, Pakistan.

Results

The sample comprised 400 undergraduate students, of whom 47.5% (190) were males and 52.5% (210) were females. The most held beliefs were that eating sugar does not affect teeth as long as one brushes twice a day (46%), brushing right after a meal is better for teeth (70%), and the extraction of baby teeth does not matter as they are going to be replaced by the permanent teeth in any case (38%). Most of these misconceptions had a significant association with the field of study.

Conclusion

The issue of myths and misconceptions regarding dental health and care is widespread, even in the academic community. This should be of significant concern to the relevant authorities, and adequate measures must be taken to dispel such false information.