Bogdan Ioan Condrea

Background and Objectives: Community fluoridation is an effective public health measure for dental caries prevention; however, knowledge and risk perception vary. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and sociodemographic determinants related to community fluoridation. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in May–June 2023 among 200 adults from Iași, Romania, using a self-administered questionnaire. Chi-square tests were applied. Results: Most respondents were familiar with fluoride (94%) and its protective role (91%), but fewer knew fluoridation methods (34%) or dental fluorosis (53%). Educational level was associated with awareness of water fluoridation (χ² = 32.219, p < 0.001), and gender with safety perceptions (χ² = 6.031, p = 0.049). Perceived toxicity was strongly associated with fluoridation safety attitudes (χ² = 29.116, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although general awareness is high, understanding remains limited. Sociodemographic factors influence knowledge and risk perception, highlighting the need for targeted communication.

Background/Objectives: Aim: Dental practice involves continuous exposure to saliva and blood, creating persistent opportunities for cross-infection if contaminated instruments are not processed correctly. This study aimed to evaluate dental students’ knowledge regarding blood-borne infections and infection prevention measures, and to compare knowledge levels according to academic year and sex. Materials and Methods: A structured questionnaire consisting of 21 single-best-answer questions was administered to 93 undergraduate dental students (Years I–VI) from the Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Gr. T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania. The questionnaire evaluated knowledge related to instrument classification, cleaning and disinfection procedures, sterilization parameters, autoclave monitoring tests, and storage conditions. Demographic data were also collected. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 31, and associations between responses and demographic variables were assessed using chi-square tests. Associations between responses and demographic variables (academic year and sex) were evaluated using chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Results: Most participants correctly identified several key steps in the instrument processing circuit, including the use of high-level disinfectant–detergent solutions (88.2%) and the need for disinfection followed by sterilization (76.3%). However, important knowledge gaps were identified regarding autoclave pre-use checks, correct sterilization temperatures and exposure times, recommended sterile storage periods, and the interpretation of sterilization monitoring tools such as type 5 chemical integrators, Bowie–Dick tests, and Helix tests. Knowledge levels differed significantly according to academic year (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although overall awareness of instrument processing procedures among dental students was generally satisfactory, several inconsistencies were observed in critical technical aspects of sterilization and monitoring. These findings highlight the need for strengthened infection control education and repeated practical training to reduce the risk of cross-infection in dental practice.

Background/Objectives: Systemic fluoridation represents one of the most effective public health interventions for preventing dental caries, being endorsed by international organizations such as the WHO and CDC. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between May and June 2023 on a sample of 200 adults from Iasi, Romania. A self-administered questionnaire composed of 15 items was used to assess knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding systemic fluoridation. Results: Most respondents (94%) declared familiarity with the term "fluoride," and 91% were aware of its protective role in dental health. However, only 34% reported awareness of the types of fluoridation, and 53% recognized the term “dental fluorosis.” Familiarity with “water fluoridation” was significantly associated with education level (χ² = 32.219, p < 0.001, r = 0.401), while gender significantly influenced perceptions regarding fluoride safety (χ² = 6.031, p = 0.049, r = 0.174). The perception of toxicity was strongly correlated with belief in the safety of general fluoridation (χ² = 29.116, p < 0.001, r = 0.382), highlighting cognitive dissonance. Awareness of “dental fluorosis” was significantly correlated with knowledge of preventive strategies for children (χ² = 67.31, p = 0.000, r = 0.580). Conclusions: Although general awareness of fluoride is high, deeper understanding of systemic fluoridation remains limited. Targeted educational interventions tailored to the population’s educational and demographic profile are required.