Resumen

NAIDOO, L  y  ONWUBU, SC. Effectiveness of the Tooth Keepers Digital Intervention in Enhancing Oral Health Awareness and Behaviours Among College Students in Durban, South Africa: A Quasi-Experimental Study. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2026, vol.81, n.2, pp.84-90. ISSN 0375-1562.  https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v81i02.22833.

INTRODUCTION: Poor oral hygiene habits are common among college students in South Africa, contributing to a high prevalence of oral health issues. Digital platforms have shown promise in improving awareness and encouraging positive oral health behaviours. AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effectiveness of digital oral health education in promoting awareness and behaviour change among college students in Durban, South Africa. METHODS: A quasi-experimental design was employed with 258 college students. Pre- and post-tests assessed changes in oral health knowledge, awareness, self-efficacy, and self-care behaviours following exposure to the Tooth Keepers digital platform. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and chi-square tests. RESULTS: The findings revealed a significant improvement in knowledge, awareness, and self-efficacy (p < 0.001) related to oral health self-care practices after exposure to digital oral health education. Additionally, participants reported significant improvements in their oral hygiene behaviours (p < 0.001) after exposure to digital oral health education. CONCLUSION: Digital oral health education effectively improves knowledge and self-care practices among college students. This study supports the integration of accessible, technology-based interventions to promote oral health, particularly in diverse and underserved populations.

Palabras clave : Digital oral health education; college students; South Africa; awareness; behaviours; quasi-experimental study.

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