Dietary Literacy and the Perception of Diet’s Impact on Dental Health: A Cross-Sectional Study among Students of the Faculty of Dentistry, Sirte University
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37375/susj.v16i1.4156Keywords:
Dietary Literacy, Dental Students, Oral Health, dental caries, periodontal diseases, Nutrition, Dental Education, Preventive Dentistry, Sirte UniversityAbstract
This study aimed to assess the level of dietary literacy and the perception of nutritional impacts on oral health among undergraduate dental students. A descriptive, cross-sectional research design was employed at the Faculty of Dentistry, Sirte University. The study population consisted of students enrolled from the first through the fourth academic years. A total of 114 participants were recruited using a randomized convenience sampling method. Data were collected via a validated, self-administered questionnaire designed to evaluate knowledge across four key domains: cariogenicity, protective factors, periodontal nutrition, and oral physiology. The results indicated an overall Moderate level of dietary literacy (Mean = 3.46). While students demonstrated high awareness regarding the systemic role of calcium and the risks of solid sticky foods, they significantly underestimated the cariogenic potential of sugar-sweetened beverages. Additionally, knowledge concerning the specific biochemical impact of micronutrients on periodontal health was found to be superficial. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between second- and third-year students across most domains (P>0.05). However, a small statistically significant difference was observed in the Protective Dietary Factors domain (P=0.048), although the overall pattern suggested a plateau in learning during the pre-clinical transition. Consequently, the study recommends the vertical integration of nutritional science within the curriculum, with an emphasized focus on correcting misconceptions regarding liquid sugars and reinforcing the clinical application of periodontal nutrition.
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