Bachelor Degree Research Proposal Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Title Page Title: Assessment of
Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Title Page
Title:
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Awareness of Using Dental Floss Picks Among Dental Students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Prepared by:
Student Name: _______________________
Student ID: _______________________
Department: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
College: __________________________
Supervisor: _______________________
Date: _____________________________ Table of Contents (Optional)
1. Introduction
2. Literature Review
3. Research Design and Methods
4. Ethical Considerations
5. Expected Outcomes
6. Implications and Contribution to Knowledge
7. Work Plan
8. Budget
9. References Abstract
Oral hygiene plays a critical role in preventing dental caries and periodontal diseases. While tooth brushing is widely practiced, interdental cleaning using dental floss picks remains underutilized despite its proven benefits. Dental students are expected to possess adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward preventive oral healthcare and serve as future educators for patients. However, limited evidence exists regarding their knowledge, attitudes, and awareness concerning dental floss pick use in Ethiopia.
This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of using dental floss picks among dental students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study will be conducted among undergraduate dental students using a structured self-administered questionnaire. The study findings will provide valuable information for improving oral health education and promoting interdental cleaning practices among future dental professionals.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
Background
Oral diseases remain among the most common health problems worldwide. Dental plaque accumulation is the primary cause of periodontal disease and dental caries. Although tooth brushing effectively removes plaque from tooth surfaces, it cannot adequately clean interdental spaces. Dental floss picks are designed to clean these areas and reduce plaque accumulation.
Dental students are expected to demonstrate proper oral hygiene practices because they will become oral health professionals responsible for educating patients. Their knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding dental floss pick use directly influence their personal oral hygiene behaviors and future patient education.
In Ethiopia, few studies have investigated dental students’ awareness and utilization of dental floss picks. Therefore, this study seeks to assess knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding dental floss pick use among dental students in Addis Ababa.
Problem Statement
Despite recommendations from dental professionals, many individuals do not regularly use dental floss picks. Even among dental students, inadequate knowledge or unfavorable attitudes may limit proper interdental cleaning practices. There is limited evidence regarding the level of knowledge, attitude, and awareness among dental students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Understanding these factors will help strengthen preventive oral health education.
Significance of the Study
The study will benefit:
* Dental schools by identifying educational gaps.
* Students by improving oral hygiene awareness.
* Policymakers by providing evidence for curriculum improvement.
* Researchers as baseline information for future studies. Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge regarding dental floss pick use among dental students?
2. What are students’ attitudes toward dental floss pick use?
3. What is the level of awareness regarding the benefits of dental floss picks?
4. Are socio-demographic characteristics associated with knowledge, attitude, and awareness?
⸻
General Objective
To assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of using dental floss picks among dental students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Specific Objectives
1. To assess students’ knowledge regarding dental floss pick use.
2. To assess students’ attitudes toward dental floss pick use.
3. To assess students’ awareness of the benefits of dental floss picks.
4. To identify factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and awareness.
2. Literature Review
Dental plaque is the principal etiological factor for periodontal diseases and dental caries. Mechanical plaque control remains the cornerstone of oral disease prevention.
Dental floss picks have become popular because they are easier to use than conventional floss and improve patient compliance. Studies conducted in several countries have shown that dental students generally possess higher oral health knowledge than the general population. However, regular flossing practices remain low despite adequate knowledge.
In Ethiopia, research has mainly focused on tooth brushing practices, while evidence regarding floss pick awareness remains limited. This study will address this knowledge gap.
3. Research Design and Methods
Study Area
The study will be conducted among dental students undergraduate in dental schools Addis Ababa Ethiopia.
Study Design
Institution-based cross-sectional study.
Study Period
From ____________ to ____________ 2026.
Source Population
All undergraduate dental students studying in Addis Ababa.
Study Population
Selected undergraduate dental students who are available during the data collection period.
Inclusion Criteria
* Undergraduate dental students.
* Students willing to participate.
Exclusion Criteria
* Students absent during data collection.
* Incomplete questionnaires.
