Assessment of Oral Health and Oral Hygiene Practices of Transgender Community in Lahore

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the current study was to assess the oral health of Trans-genders in Lahore City. Material and Methods: This study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study to assess the oral health statuses and oral hygiene practices of trans-genders in Lahore city. The data was collected using a validated questionnaire. Prior to participating in the study, all participants signed a consent form. Results: The study included 149 participants who were all trans-genders residing in Lahore city. Each participant was assessed and examined individually during the survey. The age of the participants ranged from 19 to 60 years, with a mean age of 36.49 years (SD=10.036). The mean number of decayed teeth (D) was 3.4 (SD=1.531), while the mean number of missing teeth (M) was 2.94 (SD=1.497). On average, participants had 0.52 filled teeth (F) (SD=0.15), and the total DMFT score (T) ranged from 1 to 18, with a mean of 6.86 (SD=2.99). Conclusion: Through this study, It was observed that caries experience among trans-gender community of Lahore is at high levels. Therefore, it is recommended that they undergo regular oral health checkups and take necessary preventive measures. This includes adopting proper brushing techniques and using other oral health aids to promote overall oral health.