OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of clinical training on the empathy levels of undergraduate and postgraduate dental students. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Two hundred and seventy-six students (undergraduates from third, fourth and fifthgrade, and postgraduates from different departments) completed the student version of the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy questionnaire. Total and three subscale (perspective taking, compassionate care, ability to stand in patients' shoes) scores were evaluated. The reliability of the scale was assessed by Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.77). Independent samples t-test and oneway ANOVA were used for statistical analysis (p<0.05)RESULTS: The fourth-grade students had the highest mean total empathy score (106.0±13.1) and a statistically significant difference was observed between this group and postgraduate students (98.6±14.2). The mean "compassionate care" subscale score revealed a significant decline for postgraduate students (36.2±7.6) when compared to fourth-grade students (39.9±6.6). The total empathy mean score and "compassionate care" subscale mean score were higher for females (104.2±13.6, 39.6±7.1, respectively) than males (99.7±1, 37.1±7.8, respectively). Regardless of degree of dental education, participants with a sibling had higher mean scores for "standing in patient's shoes" subscale (p<0.05). CONCLUSION:The empathy levels of postgraduate students declined with continuing education and this may be due to increased clinical responsibilities and professional attitudes.