Materials and method: All the students present in the three classes (n=160) were each given a self- administered questionnaire to obtain information on bio-data, oral health- related practices, treatment needs and concerns.
Result: A total of 117 students (73.1%) responded to the interview of which 27.4%, 35.9% and 36.8% were from 400, 500 and 600 levels respectively. Males (56.4%) were more than the females (43.6%) The mean age was 25.5 years (SD=2.71). Ninety-four percent reportedly used of toothbrush and toothpaste always. About 56% brushed twice or more while 43.6% brushed once daily. Sixty-five percent alluded to cleaning their teeth before breakfast only, 26.5% before breakfast and before going to bed while 8.5% claimed to brush before breakfast only. Most of the students (67.5%) snacked occasionally and 27.4% never had a dental visit, only 23.1% went for dental check-up. Furthermore, 67.5% rated their oral health as good though most of them (58.1%) perceived a need for scaling and polishing with 41% reporting a previous bleeding gum experience. Dental caries (28.2%) was their major concern.
Conclusion: The study indicates a need for oral health education and assessment of dental students aimed at improving their knowledge and practices.