Assessment of oral health knowledge and challenges in oral hygiene practices among homeless adults in Jalan Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur

Abstract

In Malaysia, the homeless population is increasing due to structural and individual factors. Their living environment may expose them to various health problems, including poor oral health status. Currently, studies focusing on the oral health of the homeless population in Malaysia are limited. This study aims to assess oral health knowledge and the challenges in oral health practices among homeless adults in Jalan Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 69 adults living in Jalan Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur. A questionnaire was distributed to the participants to evaluate their oral health knowledge, practices and challenges in oral hygiene care. Only 26.1% (n = 18) of the participants were able to answer the question on the causes of gum disease. There is no association in gender and education level on oral health knowledge of the participants. However, most of the participants brush their teeth at least once daily (92.7%, n = 64). There were still some participants (11.6%, n = 8) had to share toothbrush with significant association between gender and sharing of toothbrush. There is no association in education level on oral hygiene practice of the participants. Most of the participants (82.7%, n = 57) denied having any challenge in performing their routine oral hygiene care. Financial problem was identified to be the main barrier in seeking dental treatment (29.6%, n = 13). In conclusion, the homeless adults in Jalan Chow Kit had acceptable oral health knowledge with particularly low knowledge on gum disease. Nevertheless, good oral hygiene practices were reported.