A survey of knowledge, attitude, and practice toward disclosing agents among dental students: A prospective study

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice toward disclosing solution among dental students using a questionnaire survey. Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted among 200 undergraduate dental students. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of questions regarding students opinions, viewpoints, and recommendations about disclosing agents. Results: About 80% of the students were aware of the indications for disclosing agents; however, when asked about the types of disclosing agents available, only 27% of the students were aware. Regarding the methods of using disclosing agents, only 21% of students had knowledge about it. Majority of students were not aware of the commercially available brands (90%), recent advances (97), and side effects (98%) of disclosing agents. In this study, it was found that 33% of students were aware of importance of using disclosing agents at home and in dental practice, and 10% of students prescribed it while the majority of students (90%) failed to do so. Conclusion: Despite having theoretical knowledge, most of students do not give importance to use of disclosing agents in proper oral hygiene maintenance in patients. As dental professionals, students must take responsibility of their patient's health even after treatment. Students should update themselves about new materials available in the market to create the oral hygiene practice efficient among the patients.