Abstract

DLAMINI, S; MOODLEY, I  and  REDDY, M. Exploring Oral Health Care-Seeking Behaviours: Patient Perspectives on Western and Traditional Health Practices in Rural KwaZulu-Natal. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2025, vol.80, n.7, pp.375-380. ISSN 0375-1562.  https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v80i07.23691.

BACKGROUND: South Africa (SA) is currentiy undergoing significant demographic shifts, particularly in patterns of population distribution, while simultaneously grappling with a complex burden of disease characterized by high costs, mortality, and morbidity. Despite its classification as a developing country, SA continues to face persistent challenges in delivering effective primary health care, especially in rural communities. These systemic limitations often compel patients to seek alternative care, including traditional health practices The environment in which individuals live, particularly factors including accessibility, availability, and affordability of health services, plays a critical role in shaping their health-seeking behaviours. This is equally true for oral health care, which is intrinsically linked to overall health and well-being. In rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), where access to formal dental services may be limited, understanding patients' attitudes and behaviours toward oral health care is essential. Such insights can inform targeted interventions to improve oral hygiene practices and reduce the prevalence of oral diseases within these rural, underserved communities. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore patients' treatment-seeking behaviours for oral health conditions and examine their perceptions of Western and African traditional health practices in the context of accessing oral health care METHODS: This quantitative study employed an explorative cross-sectional design, using a self-administered questionnaire to obtain patients' knowledge, attitudes, and preferences when seeking oral health care in rural KZN. The sample size was 120, recruited using snowball and stratified random sampling techniques. Completed questionnaires were analysed using Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26.0. The outcomes were presented by descriptive analysis using cross-tabulations, graphs, and other figures RESULTS: While dental professionals and traditional healers were reported as accessible within the communities, the choice of consultation was shaped by a complex interplay of dental pain, cultural beliefs, personal experiences, and perceived effectiveness CONCLUSION: This study highlights participants' dual engagement with Western and African traditional health practices for treating oral diseases. Dental pain emerged as the predominant driver of treatment-seeking behaviour, significantly impacting participants' self-esteem, social interactions, and overall lifestyle. Understanding these nuanced behaviours is essential for developing culturally sensitive and contextually relevant oral health programs

Keywords : oral diseases; oral health care; health-seeking behaviour; dental professionals; traditional health practice.

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