The Effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Specialty Choices of Dental Students

Abstract We aimed to evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the career plans and self-perception of knowledge levels of undergraduate dental students. In this multicentre cross-sectional study, a multiple-choice survey was taken by students from three different universities in two countries in 2020. Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used to determine statistically significant differences. Of the 755 students that participated in our study, 66% had fear of being at risk for contagion and only 46% claimed to have adequate knowledge about occupational infections and the methods to protect themselves. Utilization of credible publications, guidelines (57% vs. 34%, p < 0.001), and online education (19% vs. 8%, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in students claiming to have adequate knowledge. 11% of the students debated dropping out of dental education because of the COVID-19 pandemic. These students had a markedly elevated rate of fear of being at risk for contagion because of the COVID-19 pandemic (80% vs. 64%, p = 0.011). 76% of the students were aiming for a dental specialty. 18% changed their desired specialty and 22% were in search of a specialty that requires less close contact procedures because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing students with sufficient information from trustworthy sources through distance education, as well as psychological support when needed has crucial importance for a successful dental education and career planning.