Assessment of Oral Health Beliefs & Oral Hygiene Practices Among Tribal Gypsies in Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Introduction: Oral health beliefs and practices have changed over the years for humans. Despite adequate advancements in global oral health, problems persist in many communities worldwide, particularly among the underprivileged. The tribal gypsies are one among the underprivileged group without any knowledge of oral health & hygiene. The present study explores oral health beliefs and behavior among the tribal gypsies of Tamil Nadu. Aim & objectives: The objective of the present study was to assess the oral health beliefs and behavior among the tribal gypsies of Tamil Nadu. Materials and methods: The list of tribal gypsy colonies was obtained from the " Department of tribal welfare," and tribal gypsy colonies of certain areas in Tamil Nadu were identified for the study. A total of 458 subjects were selected. Informed consent was obtained from each participant, and ethical approval was obtained from the Research and Ethical Committee / IRB. The survey instrument, a questionnaire, was designed and reviewed many times to produce a questionnaire that would be friendly and easy to follow. Results: The perceived severity and perceived benefits are high, and the perceived barriers and perceived importance are low, which increases the cues for action and increased participation. Conclusion: The study results suggest that the tribal gypsies might have favorable compliance for oral health promotional programs. Further research is needed to investigate the oral health of the various ethnic tribes of Tamil Nadu.