Background:The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions toward the profession, the level of explicit self-esteem (ESE) of Indian students pursuing the course of dental hygienists, to evaluate the relationship between the two and to develop educational strategies to positively influence students’ perceptions. We also wished to evaluate the level of satisfaction of the students to the current status of professional employment in the country.Materials and Methods:Students in the second year of the dental hygienist 2-year course were asked to participate in a cross-sectional survey study. An instrument was used to obtain students’ perceptions about the profession by estimating the dimensions of “Motivation,” “Expectation” and “Environment”. Their self-esteem was evaluated using the Rosenberg self-esteem scale. Relationship of self esteem scores with perceptions towards profession was then evaluated.Results:Scores for dimensions including “Motivation,” “Expectation” and “Environment” were significantly high, as were the self-esteem scores. The level of ESE was positively correlated with their perceptions of the profession.Conclusions:The perception of the Indian dental hygienist students was significantly high and positively correlated to the ESE scores. We also conclude that environmental factors may be more influential than innate cultural factors for the development of self-esteem.

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Health Care System is regarded as significant determinant in developing Physical mental and social wellness of people. It contributes important part in Indian economics. This sector can promote sound life style and positive health outcomes by eliminating Diabetes, Heart Stake, Kidney disorder, Cancer, arthritics, mental and communication disorder. Health Care System provides individuals, families and communities with protective promotive, diagnostic, preventive and curative measures as well as services.

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