Knowledge of Antibiotic Resistance Among Dental Students at Teerthanker Mahaveer University: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Antibiotic resistance is a serious global health problem driven in part by the misuse of antibiotics by healthcare professionals, including dentists. Identifying opportunities to improve dental students' knowledge is important for promoting rational and evidence-based antibiotic prescribing. Objective The objective of this study is to assess knowledge and misconceptions regarding antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance among dental students at Teerthanker Mahaveer University. Methodology A cross-sectional survey was conducted among fourth-year dental students and clinical interns (n=108). A validated questionnaire was administered using Google Forms. Data were analysed using SPSS version 24.0, and the chi-square test was used to assess the associations between demographic characteristics and knowledge level. Results The majority of participants were aware of the importance of completing the antibiotic course (n=99; 91.7%) and the role of antibiotic misuse in contributing to antibiotic resistance (n=90; 83.3%). However, (n=71; 65.7%) incorrectly thought that antibiotics could cure viral infections. Only 40 (37.0%) students were aware that antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be spread from person to person. Gender, academic role, and medical family history were not statistically associated with knowledge level. Conclusion Participants demonstrated a good understanding of antibiotic adherence and the role of antibiotic misuse in the development of antibiotic resistance; however, misconceptions regarding viral infections and the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria were common. Gender, academic role, and medical family history were not statistically associated with knowledge level. Incorporating structured antibiotic stewardship education into dental curricula may help address the identified knowledge gaps.