Knowledge, attitude, and practice of infection control in a dental hospital among dental students and practicing dentists—A cross-sectional questionnaire study

BACKGROUND: Infection control is an essential element in dental practice to avoid cross-contamination and safeguard patients and healthcare workers. Successful infection control depends on adequate knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among dental practitioners. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of infection control among dental students and practicing dentists in Puducherry, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A validated and structured questionnaire was filled out by 370 respondents, comprising dental undergraduates, postgraduates, and dentists in practice. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 16, and the Chi-square tests evaluating associations among the study variables. RESULTS: The survey showed major knowledge gaps, where only 3.5% of the participants had sufficient knowledge, and 50% lacked proper understanding. Attitude was found to be largely positive (47.3%), and practice was assessed as good among 63.5% of the respondents. Female respondents showed significantly better knowledge ( P < 0.05) than their male counterparts. Practicing dentists scored the best for attitude and practice, whereas undergraduates recorded the worst knowledge. Spearman’s rho correlation revealed a positive correlation between knowledge, attitude, and practice ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: These findings highlight a critical need for improved infection control training among dental students and early-career professionals. Regular, comprehensive infection control education, coupled with periodic assessments, is essential for enhancing the overall safety and quality of dental care.