The purpose of this study was to investigate the educational experiences of a group of Indian dental students and to assess their knowledge about child abuse and neglect. The purpose of this report also was to review the oral and dental aspects of physical and sexual abuse and dental neglect and the role of physicians and dentists in evaluating such conditions. Among health professionals, dentists are probably in the most favorable position to recognize child abuse, with opportunity to observe and evaluate not only the physical and the emotional condition of the children, but also the family background. The high frequency of facial injuries linked with physical abuse places the dentist at the forefront of professionals to identify and treat an abused child. Under-reporting of child abuse by the Dental health professionals continues, despite increasing consciousness of their prospective role in identifying this crime. There are a variety of reasons why dentists fail to report child abuse- ignorance of the problem and a lack of awareness are the major barriers. In the study only 20% respondents,(from dental colleges) had encountered the topic of child abuse and neglect during their lectures. The consequences show a lack of knowledge of the signs pointing to physical and sexual abuse of children. In conclusion, dental students should be better educated and equipped for the vital role of helping protect children from abuse and neglect.