Assessment of Knowledge of Oral Hygiene Aids among Dentists

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was carried out to assess the knowledge of oral hygiene aids among practicing general dentists. Materials and methods: A 14 multiple choice questionnaire was given to practicing general dentists to answer. A total of 50 dentists participated in the survey (26 females and 24 males). Results:74% advises to brush twice, 70% in the morning and night. 82% demonstrate their patients to use dental floss, 62% use disclosing agent to motivate the patient. 58% size of the pea tooth paste.46% recommend the use of brush and paste for cleaning the teeth. 90% recommend the use of inter dental brushes during orthodontic treatment. About 46 % recommend their patients to replace their tooth, when bristles begin to fray. 64% answered horizontal scrub causes cervical abrasion and gingival recession. 44 % answered modified stillman is used in gingival recession and root exposure. 42% answered charters in cleaning the areas of healing wounds after periodontal surgery.50% answered that Unitufted brushes are used in type 3 embrasure .60% answered that chlorhexidine is a Bisquanides. About 66% answered that strontium salt is the desensitizing agent used in tooth paste. Conclusion: The present study shows better knowledge and awareness of oral hygiene aids among dental practitioners. For optimum plaque control, the clinician needs to be working closely with the patient to communicate clear and simple messages and tailor the oral hygiene aids to their needs.