Investigation of oral health knowledge and attitudes towards oral health education among elementary school teachers in Zunyi.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the oral health knowledge of elementary school teachers and assess their attitude towards oral health education in Zunyi. A total of 636 teachers from 10 primary schools in Zunyi were selected by stratified sampling, and their general information, oral health care habits, results of oral health knowledge questionnaire, and attitude towards oral health and oral health education were investigated. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 21.0. A total of 614 teachers answered the questionnaires. Only 8.8% brush their teeth for more than three minutes, 23.8% brush their teeth horizontally, 64.7% do not performteeth cleaning, and 78.2% do not use floss. Teachers have a weak understanding that six-year teeth are permanent, that pit and fissure sealing could prevent dental caries, and that dental floss could remove dental plaque. However, their attitude towards oral health and oral health education was found to be good. Schools could improve teachers' oral health know-ledge by organizing training and other activities. Teachers could also play an active role in leading and cultivating school-age children to establish good oral habits.