The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral hygiene practices and oral status of dental professionals working in Riyadh, KSA. Questionnaires were distributed to a conveniently selected sample of 400 dental professionals. The questionnaire included the demographics, oral-hygiene practices, past-dental history, self-reported currentdental status, dental appointments, self-reported familydental condition, self-grading of oral-health and possible reasons for negligence in oral health. The response rate was 68.8%. Significant differences between male and female participants were observed regarding the reported frequencies of brushing (p=.001) and the history of dental visits (p = .013). Differences between the responses to the social habits on the consumption of coffee, tea, soft drinks, cigarettes and water pipe were insignificant. Generally, the participant's experiences with dental treatment was excellent to very good. Avoiding dental visits due to a fear of cross infection was very high (Likert scale = 3.47 out of 4) among participants. Participating dental professionals, oral hygiene practices and oral health status were satisfactory. Gender-based differences were found with females expressing more care regarding their oral health. Gingival bleeding/gingivitis and bruxism were prevalent among the male and female participants respectively. Poor oral hygiene was the primary cause for the damaged dentition. Fear of cross infection from the dental treatment prevented the participants for seeking dental treatment. Oral health attitude; Oral health behavior; Oral Hygiene Practices; Dental Professionals; Oral hygiene. Oral health is an integral part of an individual's general health. Disease-free oral cavities and healthy toothsupporting tissues are essential for optimum oral functionality. Interplay of various factors affect the socioeconomic status, education and availability of health care facilities which are significant factors that greatly influence oral health. 1 Dental caries, gingival inflammation and eventual tooth loss requiring artificial tooth replacement are deleterious consequences of oral hygiene neglect. The majority of people believe that loss is inevitable, which eventually needs replacement; also contributing towards the negligence of maintaining good oral hygiene. Neglect in oral hygiene massively affects the quality of life and expectancy. 2 Oral diseases as a result of poor oral hygiene may lead to the manifestation of various systemic diseases. Various studies have investigated the relation of oral cavity and its microbiology to several other organ systems. This reflects how important it is to maintain good oral hygiene. 3 Education plays a major role in guiding people regarding their oral hygiene. Individuals at higher education levels show more responsibility towards eating habits and performing necessary oral hygiene routines. 4 They are more aware of the consequences and problems caused by neglect in oral hygiene.
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