Assessment of oral hygiene behaviors and periodontal status among dental patients, in Turkey: A pilot study.

Abstract

Aim:Mechanical plaque control plays a substantial role in preventing periodontal diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the self-reported oral hygiene habits and periodontal status of dental patients in Turkey and to evaluate whether the data was consistent with the current periodontal status of the participants.
 Methodology: The study group consisted of 104 patients in consultation with a faculty of dentistry in Turkey. Clinical measurements included probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index and bleeding on probing. A survey was conducted in order to learn participants’ oral hygiene habits and demographic data. Three groups of 0–3 mm, 4–6 mm, and ≥ 7 mm were assigned to all patients for PD and CAL values.
 Results: A total of 33.6% of the participants brushed their teeth two or more times per day, and 33.7% brushed one time daily. The percentage of dental floss use was 11.5% and interproximal brushing was 7.7%. The percentage of the areas with 0–3 mm PD were 89.78%, and areas with 0–3 mm CAL were 86.61%. Areas with ≥ 7 mm PD and CAL were found to be very low (PD: 3.85%, CAL: 3.60%). The extent of dental plaque was 62.80% and bleeding on probing was 38.13% of the overall study population.
 Conclusion: It is possible to say that oral care is insufficient in our study group. Also, poor oral hygiene and smoking are closely related to moderate and severe clinical attachment loss for the participants. Consequently, it is clear that more extensive researches need to be done across the country.