Oral Hygiene Knowledge, Practice, and Awareness among Jazan Population of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and awareness of oral hygiene among individuals of Jazan, Southern Saudi Arabia using a well-designed questionnaire. Materials and MethodsThis prospective study was conducted on 1,000 study subjects using a self-constructed 16-item close-ended questionnaire in English and the reply was recorded by a single investigator. Both the genders were compared in terms of awareness regarding their oral health by evaluating responses to the questions asked. Statistical AnalysisData collected was subjected to statistical analysis using IBM SPSS 20.0 version. ResultsA total of 1000 study subjects were assessed, out of which equal distribution (50%) was seen among both the genders. Statistically a significant difference (p-value < 0.05) was observed between both the genders in relation to most of the questions, with females being more aware as compared with males regarding oral hygiene practices. ConclusionThis study revealed that although females were more aware of maintaining oral health practices than males, still lack of knowledge and awareness was observed among both the genders in Jazan region. Thus, it is essential to implement various educational and awareness programs regarding oral hygiene practices, so that oral health-related quality of life can be improved.