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Motivations for choosing dentistry and short-term career expectations among Saudi dental students and graduates: a cross-sectional study
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DOI：10.1186/s12909-026-10053-9.png)
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Abstract
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Understanding motivations for choosing dentistry and early career expectations is important for dental education planning and workforce development. In Saudi Arabia, there is limited evidence regarding these factors across different stages of dental training. This study aimed to assess motivations for choosing dentistry among entry-level dental students and to evaluate short-term career expectations and influencing factors among recent dental graduates. A cross-sectional study was conducted among entry-level undergraduate dental students and dental graduates undergoing internship training during the 2024–2025 academic year at three governmental dental institutions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaires adapted from previously published instruments used in similar dental education contexts. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact test, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis were used to analyze motivations, career expectations, and associated factors. Sixty students (response rate: 63.2%) and seventy graduates (response rate: 47.6%) participated in the study. Among students, high income (98.3%), flexible working hours (93.3%), working in a healthcare profession (90.0%), and the availability of specialty training (86.7%) were the most frequently reported motivations for choosing dentistry. Among graduates, the most common short-term career expectations included improving clinical dental skills (85.7%), participating in specialty training courses (82.9%), seeking governmental employment (81.4%), and obtaining a postgraduate qualification (80.0%). Financial status was the most influential factor shaping career expectations (97.1% positive). A strong positive correlation was observed between factors influencing career expectations and overall career expectation scores (r = 0.719, p < 0.001). Sociodemographic characteristics were not significantly associated with motivations or career expectations in either cohort (all p > 0.05). Among dental students, financial considerations and intrinsic interest in healthcare were the primary motivators for choosing dentistry. Among graduates, financial status and professional development were the most influential factors shaping short-term career expectations. Sociodemographic variables were not significantly associated with motivations or career expectations in either group. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution given the small sample size. These findings may help educators and policymakers better align dental education and career guidance with the professional goals of the Saudi dental workforce.
Keywords:
Dentistry
Career motivation
Career expectations
Dental students
Dental graduates
Saudi Arabia
Workforce planning
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