Original Article
Year : 2026 | Volume : 14| Issue : 1 | Page : 23 -27
Knowledge, Awareness and Clinical Perspectives of Fluoride Toxicity among Dental Undergraduate Students
Rajkumar C 1*, Mahalakshmi Saravanan 2, Mahalakshmi S 2, Maheswari M 2, Nanda Balan I 3, Zoha Abdullah 4
1* Senior Lecturer, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Madha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai -600069
2 Intern, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Madha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai -600069
3 Professor and Head, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Madha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai -600069
4 Reader, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Madha Dental College and Hospital University, Chennai -600069
Address for Correspondence:
Rajkumar C,
Madha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai -600069
Email id: rajsachin1994@gmail.com
Abstract
Introduction: Fluoride is essential for caries prevention, yet its narrow therapeutic index necessitates a thorough understanding of its toxicological profile. Dental students must be proficient in recognizing and managing fluoride toxicity to ensure patient safety. Aim was to assess and compare the knowledge of occupational hazards among dental students and interns across different academic levels.
Materials and methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 dental students at Madha Dental College and Hospital. A 15-item digital questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms. Data were analyzed using SPSS Software Version 27.0, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: A total of 230 students participated (76.5% female). While a clinical trend of increasing knowledge was observed with academic seniority, statistical analysis revealed no significant difference across years (p > 0.05). Knowledge regarding common manifestations like dental fluorosis was high, but gaps remained concerning systemic complications and precise lethal dosages. Most students correctly identified the small intestine as the primary absorption site.
Conclusion: The study indicates a moderate level of knowledge regarding fluoride toxicity. Persistent gaps across all academic years underscore the need for enhanced educational programs and clinical seminars focusing on the systemic risks and emergency management of fluoride overexposure.
Financial support and sponsorship
Nil
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest
How to Cite this article: Rajkumar C, Mahalakshmi Saravanan, Mahalakshmi S, Maheswari M, Nanda Balan I & Zoha Abdullah. Knowledge, Awareness and Clinical Perspectives of Fluoride Toxicity among Dental Undergraduate Students. Int J Comm Dent 2026; 14(1); 23 27. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56501/intjcommunitydent.14.1.ijcd0088
