Assessment of Oral Mucosal Lesions (OML), Periodontal Health Conditions, and Unmet Dental Treatment Needs in the Rural Adult Population of Jharkhand, North India.

Abstract

Background Dental diseases like caries, periodontal diseases, and oral mucosal lesions (OML) are common findings in rural adult populations that greatly impact their quality of life. Aim To assess OML, periodontal health conditions, and unmet dental treatment needs in the rural adult population in Jharkhand. Methodology A total of 700 permanent residents of Bero Block, Jharkhand, North India, in the age group of 35-44 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. Both men and women were equally represented. Their socio-demographic characteristics and previous dental visits were collected using standardized proforma. An assessment of periodontal health conditions, OML, and unmet dental treatment needs was done using the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Assessment Proforma of 1997. Results It was found that over half (54.3%) of the studypopulation had the adverse habit of smoking and chewingpaan. Males were more likely to experience leukoplakia (18.87%), whereas females were more likely to experience abscesses (9.43%). The majority of males and females had a community periodontal index (CPI) score and loss of attachment (LOA) score greater than two, which indicated poor periodontal health as assessed by the periodontal index. Both males and females needed extraction of the diseased teethas their primary treatment. Conclusion The rural adult population residing in the Bero block of Jharkhand showed poor periodontal health and high unmet dental treatment needs. These people need effective oral health promotion policies and dental health education to improve their oral health.