Abstract:
Background and Aim: Dental compressors are critical for powering clinical equipment, yet their optimal management remains underemphasized in dental curricula. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dental students at Tehran Islamic Azad University (2024) regarding compressor use, aiming to identify gaps in training and improve clinical competency. 
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study included 142 final-year undergraduate students and 69 postgraduate residents. A validated researcher-developed questionnaire assessed three domains: (1) knowledge (16 MCQs on function, maintenance, and safety), (2) attitudes (4 Likert-scale items), and (3) self-reported practical skills (5 questions). Initially, the validity of the questionnaire was evaluated by five dentists and five biomedical engineers. Data were analyzed via SPSS 26 using linear regression (p < 0.05). 
Result: Postgraduates outperformed undergraduates in knowledge (8.16 ± 2.318 vs. 7.19 ± 2.423, p = 0.006) and attitudes (12.99 ± 2.422 vs. 10.72 ± 2.471, p < 0.0001). However, no significant difference was observed in practical skills (postgraduates: 1.88 ± 1.008 vs. undergraduates: 1.86 ± 1.200, p = 0.882). Regression analysis indicated knowledge (p < 0.0001) and attitudes (p= 0.060) significantly influenced practice scores.
 Conclusion: Despite postgraduates’ superior theoretical knowledge and attitudes, both groups exhibited comparable practical deficiencies. The disconnect underscores the need for curriculum reforms integrating hands-on training with theoretical instruction to enhance safe, effective compressor management.