Knowledge about nanotechnology used in dentistry: a survey among students

Objectives: Introduction of innovative nanotechnologies into medicine and dentistry opens new possibilities for diagnosis and treatment. Rapid development of nanotechnology creates a need for curriculum adjustment at the Universities. The aim of this study was to assess dental students’ knowledge related to nanotechnology.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, dental students at two Norwegian and one Romanian Universities were invited to participate. Students completed self-administered structured questionnaires. The questionnaire included socio-demographics components and a knowledge section related to use of nanomaterials in dentistry.
Results: A total of 212 out of 732 dental students participated in the survey: 52 from Norway and 160 from Romania. Most students reported to have no or little knowledge about nanotechnology (Norwegians = 59.6% vs. Romanians = 85.0%, p < 0.001). Lectures and seminars were the most common source of information (Norwegians = 95.5% vs. Romanians = 65.7%, p < 0.001). More than 90% of students in both countries reported that they wanted to get more information about nanotechnology at the University. Mean knowledge score was similar for Romanian and Norwegian students (4.3 ± 1.5 vs. 4.4 ± 1.7, p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Our study revealed limited knowledge about nanotechnology among dentals students both in Norway and Romania. Dental students from both countries expressed willingness to receive more information about nanotechnology during academic studies. More information about nanotechnology and its applications in dentistry should be included in the dental curriculum.