Abstract

HABIB, SR et al. Self-reported oral hygiene practices and oral health status among dental professionals. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2020, vol.75, n.1, pp.7-13. ISSN 0375-1562.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2519-0105/2020/v75no1a1.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral hygiene practices and oral status of dental professionals working in Riyadh, KSA. METHODS: Questionnaires were distributed to a conveniently se-ected sample of 400 dental professionals. The questionnaire included the demographics, oral-hygiene practices, past-dental history, self-reported current-dental status, dental appointments, self-reported family-dental condition, self-grading of oral-health and possible reasons for negligence in oral health. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: 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.

Keywords : Oral health attitude; Oral health behavior; Oral Hygiene Practices; Dental Professionals; Oral hygiene.

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