Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Among 13–15 Years Old School Children Towards Oral Hygiene Nagaraj Prashaanthi1, Mani Geo2,* 1Graduate Student, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University 2Senior Lecturer, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University *Corresponding Author: Geo Mani Senior Lecturer, Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, 162 Poonamallee High Road, Chennai-600 077, Tamil Nadu, India Phone: 7358433246 Email: geosdch@gmail.com
Online published on 20 March, 2019. Abstract Introduction Good oral health is essential for good nutrition and ultimately good general health. A set of healthy teeth is achieved by the practices, such as brushing, flossing, and periodic dental visit which should be developed early in the childhood. The study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of 13–15 years old school children towards oral hygiene. Materials and Method School children (n=103) aged between 13 to 15 years in a private school were included into this study. The subjects completed a questionnaire that aimed to evaluate school children's’ knowledge, attitude and practice towards oral health and dental treatment. Results The results were tabulated and percentage was calculated. The individuals oral hygiene habits (such as tooth brushing, duration of brushing) were found to be irregular and parents were the source of knowledge in the oral hygiene habits of their children. The study population showed awareness of caries and periodontal conditions. The children in this study also recognized the importance of oral health. Conclusion The children in this study recognized the importance of oral health. The results of this study indicate that Comprehensive oral health educational programs for children are required. Top Keywords Attitude, Knowledge, Oral hygiene, Practice, School children. Top |