Assessment of the awareness of periodontal diseases and oral hygiene practice among various healthcare professionals: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Oral health is an important component of general health that influences quality of life which affect appearance and psychological activities of person. Oral diseases have impact on overall systemic health. So doctor must play active role in educating their patients about role of oral diseases in their overall health Aims: To assess the awareness of periodontal diseases and oral hygiene practice among healthcare professionals. Settings and design: A total of 200 participants were selected from Ayurveda College, Homeopathic Medical College and two other hospitals for this study. Convenience sampling is used here. Methods and Materials: 50 participants from each group were selected for study. The questionnaire consisted of 10 questions based on assessment of oral hygiene practice, knowledge of periodontal diseases and to promote oral hygiene. Statistical analysis: Collected data was analyzed statistically using SPSS version 24 and utilized for statistical analysis. Pearson Chi-square test was used to evaluate differences between different variables and level of statistical significance was P < 0.05. Results: Homeopathy participants were more concerned about their oral healthcare comparing other groups. About 62% of Ayurveda and Homeopathy participants were able to identify dental patients and refer them for proper dental care. All the groups have knowledge regarding periodontal diseases. Conclusion: Although healthcare professionals who had undergone previous dental visit had some awareness regarding oral diseases, oral health knowledge was poor among healthcare professionals. There is also a need to enhance awareness of healthcare practitioners about periodontal disease.