A cross sectional study to assess the oral health knowledge, attitude and practice among school children in rural field practice area of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20184822Keywords:
Oral health, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Middle school childrenAbstract
Background: Oral health is an integral part of the general health and well being of an individual. Dental caries, periodontal disease and oral mucosal disease constitute the major oral health problems in developing countries. To follow healthy oral habits it is essential to have good oral health knowledge and attitude. Good oral health related knowledge among school children is considered to be an essential prerequisite for improving oral health in a community. The objective of the study was to assess the oral health knowledge, attitude and practice among school children in rural field practice area of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), Bengaluru.
Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 140 middle school children choosen randomly from government schools of Nelamangala, Rural field practice area of BMCRI, during September - November 2016. Data was collected using semi- structured questionnaire by interview method and was analyzed by descriptive statistics.
Results: Out of 140 students, 67 were males, 73 were females. 49 (35%) students knew that sweetened food or drinks causes dental caries. 60 (42.86%) of them knew that there can be decay of tooth if they do not brush daily. 120 (85.71%) agreed that self care is important to prevent dental problems. 82 (58.57%) had a practice of brushing teeth twice daily.
Conclusions: In the present study, there is a gap in the oral health knowledge and practice among school children, which needs to be filled up by regular oral health education to children, parents and teachers as well.
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