Oral Health Knowledge, Awareness, and Referral Practices Among Medical and Nursing Students at RAKMHSU: A Cross-Sectional Study

Oral health remains insufficiently represented within many medical and nursing curricula, despite strong evidence linking oral diseases with systemic conditions. This study assessed oral health knowledge, awareness, and referral practices among medical and nursing students at RAK Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU).

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 255 undergraduate medical and nursing students using a structured, pre‑validated questionnaire. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, dental awareness, knowledge of dental specialties, systemic–oral health relationships, and referral practices were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used for analysis, and results were stratified by discipline.

Most respondents (98.8%) were aware of dentistry as a profession, yet only 40.7% had previously visited a dentist. Brushing once daily was reported by 70.6% of students. Knowledge of dental specialties was variable, with only 28.5% identifying restorative dentistry as responsible for managing dental caries. Understanding of systemic–oral links showed substantial gaps; only 29.8% correctly identified Ludwig’s angina as a fascial space infection. Although 66.2% recognised the link between periodontal disease and infective endocarditis, only 4.7% identified its association with diabetes. Most students demonstrated appropriate referral intentions, but only 9.8% had previously made a dental referral.

Despite high general awareness, significant gaps persist in students’ knowledge of dental specialties, systemic–oral health relationships, and referral practices. Enhanced integration of oral health education within medical and nursing curricula is required to strengthen interprofessional collaboration and improve patient care outcomes.