Knowledge and Skills Level on Oral Health Among Students at the "Ferdinand I" Military Technical Academy in Bucharest.

Abstract

The increase in the number of clinical cases with varying levels of damage to dental structures among young adults due to caries and excessive consumption of sweets and acidic beverages leads to questions about why there is an increase of cases despite all means of information. Is there a lack of interest in oral health among young adults? The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and skills level of the students regarding oral health in order to conceive and implement an oral health educational program adapted to their needs and interests.The survey method using a questionnaire was administered to students in the first, second, and third academic year at the “Ferdinand I” Military Technical Academy (Bucharest, Romania) in March 2019 and included general data and specific information about oral health. We noted a relatively high participation in this study (73.91% agreed), although 71% have not participated in campaigns and training programs about oral health. The participants showed a high degree of interest in dental aesthetics, although 59% consider dental caries to be the main problem affecting their oral-dental health. It is imperative to introduce an educational module regarding oral health for military students, and not only, in order to materialize knowledge by adopting healthy attitudes and behaviors, avoiding high financial and biological costs for both the patient and the healthcare system.