Difference in Malocclusion Knowledge between Mothers in Urban and Rural Area: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Some studies have reported about adequate relationship between mothers' knowledge and children's oral health status. Malocclusion is one of the major health issues after dental caries and periodontal disease which can worsen the oral health-related quality of life. Promoting dental health among mothers is a way to improve oral health since dental services are limited during the pandemic of COVID-19. The aim of this study is to analyze the knowledge about malocclusion between mothers in urban and rural areas. This cross-sectional study targeted mothers who live in Medan Anggrung district area as the urban group representative and Telagah village as the rural representative. They were asked based on the knowledge of malocclusion questionnaires including about the causes of malocclusion, the knowledge and awareness about malocclusion, knowledge about risk factors, and prevention of malocclusion. The level of knowledge assessment is based on Arikunto's which was categorized as high, moderate, and low. The difference analysis between the two-groups was based on Pearson Chi-square at significance level (p<0.05). The knowledge of malocclusion in the rural area was higher than those living in the urban area. There was a significant difference of malocclusion knowledge between mothers in the urban and rural (p=0.00). It seems that dental health promotion can improve mothers' knowledge about malocclusion which affects their children's oral health. However, a further study based on clinical examinations should be done to analysis mothers' behaviour in keeping their children's oral health.