The demanding nature of medical and dental education
is a well-established fact. The rigorous academic workload,
combined with extensive clinical training and the constant
pressure to perform, creates a challenging environment
that can significantly impact students’ mental and
emotional well-being, often leading to elevated stress
levels [1,2]. Stress is understood as a physiological and
psychological response to perceived demands or threats,
manifested in various ways, from emotional distress and
physical symptoms to changes in behavior [3]. The dental
profession is inherently stressful, and the mental health of
dental students and professionals is a growing concern.
Gender differences in stress and coping mechanisms have
been underexplored in this population, despite their
potential implications for mental health interventions. This
study seeks to fill this gap by providing evidence-based
insights that can inform targeted support strategies.
Keywords: stress, dental education, gender.