Abstract

Dental students must study in a very challenging setting since the field demands regular patient connection, in-person practice, and both theoretical and clinical expertise. Stress among dental students is a well-documented issue that significantly affects their academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. They encounter a variety of stressors during their school years, including demanding schedules, high workloads, and the need to balance studying fundamentals with developing technical clinical abilities. Other pressures, such managing patients, taking responsibility for patient care, and having trouble learning manual skills, surface during the clinical period. This review explores the prevalence, sources, and consequences of stress among dental students globally. It also evaluates coping mechanisms and institutional interventions aimed at mitigating stress. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library for studies published. The findings highlight academic, clinical, and interpersonal stressors, gender differences, and regional variations in stress levels. The review underscores the need for institutional reforms, faculty training, and structured mental health support programs.

Keywords

dental students, mental health, stress