Assessment of Oral Health Knowledge and Oral Hygiene Practices among Dental Patients- A Hospital-Based KAP Survey

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of oral health is prerequisite for healthy life style, that allows individuals to take measures to protect their health. The objective of the study is to assess the knowledge of oral health and oral hygiene practices among the patients and to evaluate awareness, regarding harmful effects of tobacco and alcohol on oral health and general health. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 300 participants, willing to participate in the study. After detailing the procedure to the participants, a written consent was obtained through consent forms. A validated Questionnaire was administered to the participants in regional language. Responses were recorded and tabulated and entered into an excel sheet for statistical analysis using SPSS Version 20, Data were processed by Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA test.  Results: There was statistically less significant difference in knowledge regarding Oral health between the genders. About 97.9% of the participants in the study had good knowledge, 14.3% had a positive attitude and 48.2% had adequate oral health practices. Patients in the age group of 25 to 44 yrs were more knowledgeable, and displayed better attitude and characteristics towards oral health compared to more elderly age groups. There was no difference in attitude towards oral health between males and females. There was no significant difference between the genders in their desire to undergo dental treatment