Background: Periodontal diseases can result in premature tooth loss; However, early detection, adherence to oral hygiene practices, and regular prophylaxis can help prevent or minimize the severity of periodontal diseases. Additionally, increased awareness and knowledge about periodontal health can positively influence behaviors related to oral health.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare the level of knowledge about periodontal oral health among patients attending public and private dental clinics and to investigate the relationship of their knowledge with Socio-demographic factors.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess periodontal health knowledge among Libyan adults. Researchers interviewed 180 adults aged 18 years and older face-to-face. The study focused on demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, occupation, and clinic type. Additionally, a chi-square test was used to explore differences in periodontal health knowledge between patients attending public and private dental clinics, considering age, gender, education, and occupation
Results: Socioeconomic status correlates with knowledge about periodontal signs, symptoms, etiology, and prevention. Females, those with higher education, and better economic status had significantly higher periodontal health knowledge. Knowledge increased with occupation level. The 41-60 age group and university-educated individuals demonstrated higher periodontal health knowledge. Females in public clinics were more aware of etiology than males. In private clinics, both genders showed an inverse association regarding the same question, with higher periodontal knowledge found among males.
Conclusion: The study showed differences in periodontal knowledge among patients attending different types of dental clinics, with variations based on age, gender, education, and occupation. Better socio-economic status is associated with better knowledge.