Oral Hygiene Practices Research Articles

Exploring the Implications of Cultural Dental Mutilation on Periodontal Health: A Study on Mentawai Women's Traditional Teeth Sharpening

Teeth sharpening is a part of the Mentawai tribe’s rich cultural legacy and is done by women upon reaching adulthood in Indonesia. However, it has been linked to negative impacts on oral health, particularly in the periodontal tissues. This paper studied the periodontal tissues of Mentawai women who have undergone teeth sharpening, considering potential specific implications. Employing a descriptive approach, this cross-sectional study was conducted across four villages in Mentawai Island, Indonesia. Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHIS) and the Gingival Index (GI) were used to assess the periodontal status of eight Mentawai women who had undergone teeth sharpening. The study revealed a notable absence of optimal periodontal tissue health among respondents with suboptimal oral hygiene practices (OHIS score 3.4) and considerable gingival inflammation (GI score 2.2). The presence of supragingival and infragingival calculus, alongside visible stains across the teeth of Mentawai women were due inadequate of oral health care behavior. In addition, the findings underscore the intricate interplay between cultural practices and gender-specific health outcomes. A deeper understanding of health behaviors, as influenced by culture, health beliefs, acculturation, and attitudes, is needed to formulate appropriate oral health promotion policies. A gender-informed perspective will encourage a broader dialogue about preserving cultural heritage as well as empowering the role of women in their family and community on oral health improvement. The implementation of this analysis would be developing the best strategy for modifying this custom in order to keep it while preserving oral health. Keywords: Cultural dental mutilation; Periodontal health; Mentawaians Women; Sharpening Teeth Tradition

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment, and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Assessment of Periodontal Health Status and Treatment Needs Among Pregnant Women.

Background Pregnancy-related periodontal health is vital for maternal and fetal well-being, with implications on birth outcomes. However, comprehensive data on periodontal health among pregnant women in Pakistan are lacking. This research aimed to assess the periodontal health status and treatment needs among pregnant women in Pakistan. Methodology This study conducted at Multan Medical and Dental College in Multan, Pakistan, utilized a cross-sectional design over one year from January 2023 to December 2023. It enrolled 230 pregnant women from the prenatal care clinic, employing strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure data integrity. Data collection involved a systematic questionnaire and clinical examination by qualified dental practitioners, covering demographic details, obstetric history, dental hygiene habits, and periodontal health parameters. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate periodontal health status determinants. Results This study, comprising 230 participants, delineates key demographic and periodontal health indicators. Notably, the age group between 26 and 30 years made up the greatest percentage (n = 87, 37.83%), followed by the age group between 18 and 25 years (n = 58, 25.22%). The chi-square test showed a significant association betweenage and periodontal health (χ² = 8.23, df = 3, p = 0.041). University-educated participants showed decreased periodontal risks (odds ratio = 0.51, p = 0.037), with education level also emerging as a significant factor (χ² = 12.76, df = 2, p = 0.002). Regarding dental hygiene, 44.35% of people brushed twice a day, and 27.83% flossed every day. Periodontal data revealed that 53.04% of individuals had gingivitis and that the mean probing depth was 3.22 mm. Scaling and root planing were the most requested therapy (50.00%). Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into the periodontal health status and treatment needs of pregnant women in Pakistan. Investigative analyses including chi-square tests and logistic regression identified significant associations between demographic factors, oral hygiene practices, and periodontal health outcomes among pregnant women in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to enhance maternal and child health.

Oral Health Status of 12 and 15 years old school going children in rural and urban areas of Madhurawada Town

Brief Background Children's appearance, quality of life, food intake, and growth and development are all affected by oral disorders. To ensure long-term dental health and hygiene, good oral hygiene practices must begin at a young age. To assess the oral health status among 12 and 15 years old urban and rural school going children of Madhurawada Town, Vishakhapatnam. Material and Methods Multistage cluster sampling was used. The clinical examination of each subject was done at schools in Madhurawada Town, Visakhapatnam district with the WHO Oral health assessment form 2013. The total sample size calculate was 1700. Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS software version 21.0. Descriptive and Paired t test and chi-square test were used. Results Out of 1700 study participants, 850 are from rural and 850 are from urban area. The value of mean DMFT was 2.27±1.17, 1.85±1.71 among 12 years old age from rural and urban area respectively. Mean DMFT value was 1.85±1.54, 1.67±1.58 in 15 years old from rural and urban area. The mean bleeding on probing is 39.2%, 42.8% in 12 years old 77.6%, 56.2% in 15 years old age group from rural and urban areas respectively. Conclusions According to the findings of this study, the prevalence of oral disease was higher in children from rural areas than in children from urban areas. Key Words: Dental caries, Multistage cluster sampling, Oral health status, WHO assessment

Assessment of Parents Involvement and the Awareness of Oral Hygiene Practices among 5–12 Years Old School-children

Assessment of Parents Involvement and the Awareness of Oral Hygiene Practices among 5–12 Years Old School-children

Correlation between the Oral and Mental Health of University Students in Serbia-A Cross-Sectional Study.

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the correlation between subjective oral health status and mental health in a group of university students in Serbia. The study included 948 students, aged between 18 and 27, from the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Serbia, and was conducted in 2020. The World Health Organization's Oral Health Questionnaire for Adults was utilized to evaluate the respondents' self-perceived oral health and oral hygiene practices. The existence of depressive symptoms was evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Zung self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) was used for determining anxiety symptoms. It is observed that 28.9% of respondents exhibit symptoms of depression and 42.3% showed symptoms of anxiety. Results show that students with severe depression and anxiety symptoms very often reported lower self-perceived oral health and oral health problems. Although the nature of this relationship has not been thoroughly evaluated, several studies have shown a mutually dependent connection between oral health and mental health. The results suggest that some aspects of oral health are associated with higher risks of developing symptoms of depression or anxiety, and vice versa.

Assessment of Motivations, Treatment Risks, and Oral Health in Adults with Fixed Orthodontic Care: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Aim: This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the reasons why adults seek orthodontic treatment, their perceived treatment risks, oral hygiene habits, and awareness of oral health. Materials and Methods: This study, which involved 246 adults, used a self-report questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data and examine the participants' understanding of oral health, self-assessment of oral health status, adherence to oral hygiene routines, and use of oral hygiene products. In addition, the reasons for opting for orthodontic treatment, negative associations, and expected outcomes were examined. The collected data were subjected to statistical analysis, including descriptive and regression methods. Results: The results showed that factors such as previous oral health education and regular use of specialized toothbrushes, including rotary toothbrushes, were significantly associated with higher knowledge levels (p < 0.05). However, daily oral hygiene practices were suboptimal, with the low utilization of aids: only 58.9% reported using interdental brushes, and 36.6% used dental floss regularly. Commonly reported dental problems included food debris between teeth (46.3%), tartar (35.4%), and tooth sensitivity to cold (26.4%). The primary motivations for orthodontic treatment were aesthetic improvement (63.8%), enhancements in oral function (49.6%), and addressing psychosocial concerns (42.7%). In contrast, the most frequently mentioned negative aspects associated with fixed orthodontic treatment were aesthetic concerns (30.9%), treatment duration (27.6%), and mouth ulcers (24.0%). Conclusions: Based on the research findings, regular oral hygiene education is recommended for adult patients considering fixed orthodontic therapy, including the use of additional tools such as interdental brushes and floss to improve oral health and reduce the risk of complications during treatment. The importance of chemical compounds in dentifrices and mouthwashes cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in addressing various dental issues. In addition, it is crucial to carefully weigh the pros and cons of therapy and to visit a dentist regularly to maintain oral health and monitor progress during treatment.

Association between oral hygiene knowledge and practices among older dental patients attending private dental clinics in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundEnsuring optimal oral hygiene is crucial for preserving the well-being of hard and soft tissues within the oral system. A lack of proper oral hygiene can have a detrimental impact on an individual’s health, leading to conditions such as caries and periodontitis. Therefore, this study investigated the association between the knowledge and practices of older patients in oral hygiene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 111 older patients who presented at purposively selected dental clinics in Addis Ababa. A convenience sampling method was used to recruit study participants. The data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included information related to the patient’s knowledge and practices related to oral hygiene. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the associations between independent and dependent variables. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated, and variables with a p value < 0.05 in the multivariate analysis were considered significant.ResultsThe median age of the study participants was 70.31 years (65–100). Inadequate oral hygiene knowledge was found in 53.15% of the participants, while more than three-quarters (83.78%) of the older participants practiced poor oral hygiene. Older patients with good oral hygiene knowledge were 7.6 times more likely to practice good oral hygiene practices (AOR, 7.6; 95% CI (2.05–27.9)).ConclusionsPoor oral health is significantly associated with various health problems, particularly in older people. This study examined the relationship between oral health knowledge and practices in older dental patients and revealed insufficient knowledge and practices among participants. The results showed a notable link between oral health knowledge and practices in this demographic group, highlighting the need for support to improve oral health status. Organizations should increase awareness among older patients to improve their oral health status.

Factors Influencing Tooth Sensitivity: Insights From the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia Using Bootstrap-Enhanced Ordinal Regression.

Introduction Tooth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity (DH), is characterized by sharp, sudden pain in response to stimuli such as cold, heat, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.In Malaysia, there is limited understanding of the epidemiological aspects of tooth sensitivity, necessitating focused research. The condition results from the exposure of dentinal tubules transmitting stimuli to nerves within the pulp, with contributing factors including gingival recession, enamel erosion, and periodontal disease. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with tooth sensitivity among patients at the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) using advanced statistical methods. Methods This study employed a computational research design to develop an ordinal regression and bootstrap methodology using the RStudio software (Posit PBC, Boston, MA) to analyze secondary data from the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Six variables were analyzed: tooth wear severity, patient'sage, gender, smoking status, alcohol status, and type of toothbrush. The study was conducted in three phases: 1) the development of an ordinal regression model, 2) the development of algorithms for ordinal regression and bootstrap method, and 3) validation using tooth sensitivity data. Results The analysis revealed that the replication with 1000 samples provided the most precise estimates with small standard errors (SE) and consistently significant effects across variables. Tooth sensitivity was influenced by age, toothpaste type, toothbrush type, and brushing frequency. Conclusion The study highlights the importance of considering multiple variables such as age, toothpaste type, toothbrush type, and brushing frequency in understanding tooth sensitivity. The combined ordinal regression and bootstrap technique significantly improved the model's accuracy, providing valuable insights for dental health professionals. These findings underscore the need for specific guidelines on oral hygiene practices to manage and reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity.

Assessment of oral hygiene practices in the rural population of gwalior district- A cross sectional study

Assessment of oral hygiene practices in the rural population of gwalior district- A cross sectional study

Early Childhood Caries-Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Severity: A Hospital-Based Study in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Early childhood caries (ECC) is not merely a problem of the tooth; rather, it has negative impacts on the child's growth and development and oral health-related quality of life. The prevalence of ECC varies widely, and more variance is observed between countries than continents, and it changes over time. The current cross-sectional study aimed to determine ECC's prevalence, associated factors, and severity. This study was conducted in the Dental Clinic Complex, North Riyadh, KSA. The study sample included 306 participants between 36 and 71 months of age. A questionnaire was developed to collect information from participants. The decaying and filled teeth (DMFT) index was used to estimate the prevalence of caries. The study results revealed the prevalence of ECC to be 76% among 36- to 71-month-old children in North Riyadh. ECC is influenced by socioeconomic factors like maternal occupation, education, oral hygiene habits, and dietary patterns. Also, it was found that exclusively breastfed children have lower ECC odds (68.1% vs. 83.6%, p = 0.001), while the intake of more than three between-meal sugar-containing snacks/beverages per day increases the likelihood of ECC (63.5% vs. 79.8%, p = 0.006). The researchers recommend encouraging breastfeeding as it correlates with lower ECC prevalence, in addition to establishing effective oral hygiene practices for preschool children.

Assessment of oral hygiene behavior among Iraqi medical students

Objectives: General health is intimately related to oral health. Since primary care doctors are the main healthcare providers in society and many systemic disorders present themselves orally, it is imperative that medical students and professionals comprehend oral health and its importance. The study’s aims were to determine the comprehension of oral hygiene practices and brushing teeth strategies among a sample of Iraqi medical graduates. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study involved 100 medical undergraduates at Ibn Sina University, College of Medicine in Baghdad, Iraq, during the period from (September to November 2022) after obtaining informed approval. Results: Our participants were 57.0% male and 43.0% female, ranging in age from 20 to 24 years old, the majority of students (82.0%) brush their teeth daily, but (18.0%) they did not, regarding toothbrushing techniques, the majority (34.0%) use a combined (horizontal and vertical) technique, (29.0%) vertical, (17.0%) horizontal, and (20.0%) circular, regarding time spent on brushing teeth, 47.0% taking 1 min, 29.0% taking between 2 and 3 min, 18.0% taking less than a minute, and 6.0% taking more than 4 min, and (52.0%) of students use a medium brush, while (31.0%) use a soft brush, and (5.0%) use a hard brush, the remaining (12.0%) not knowing the type of brush they employ, the dental floss was known to (65.0%) of participants, while 35.0% were unaware of its existence, there was no significant correlation between regularity of brushing and the number of visits to the dentist for scaling (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: It would be valuable for medical graduates to attend educational society gatherings and continued dental training courses to increase their understanding of their oral hygiene.

Effectiveness of Educational Videos Comparing Single Versus Multiple Topics: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background Dental caries and gingivitis are preventable diseases that remain highly prevalent among children globally and, while transmissible through the transfer of oral bacteria typically from mother to child, differ from communicable diseases that are spread through direct contact, air, or vectors. Unlike communicable diseases, dental caries and gingivitis can be effectively prevented through proper oral hygiene practices and dietary modifications. Oral health education (OHE) intends to improve oral hygiene practices and reduce oral health problems. However, evidence of the impact of multiple topics in OHE on preschool children is lacking. This study aimed to examine the effects of single- versus multiple-topic OHE delivered via video presentations on the plaque and gingival status of preschool children. Methods A parallel five-arm cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted on healthy preschool children aged five and six years. Children with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or conditions that could affect their oral health or ability to participate in the OHE intervention were excluded. OHE interventions were given to children from eight of the 10 classes assigned as intervention groups, while two classes served as the control group and received no intervention. The intervention groups received one, two, or three oral health topics using specially developed animation videos, in Malay language: toothbrushing technique (T), toothbrushing technique and the effects of sugar consumption on oral health (TS), toothbrushing technique and pathogenesis of dental caries and gingivitis (TP), and toothbrushing technique, the effects of sugar consumption on oral health, and pathogenesis of dental caries and gingivitis (TSP). Plaque and gingival scores, along with oral health knowledge, attitude, and skills (KAS), were recorded before and after the intervention. The CONSORT guidelines were followed in reporting. The analyses included descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, effect sizes, and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) at a 5% significance level. Results A total of 160 participants were equally distributed into five groups (n = 32). There were no baseline differences in plaque or gingival scores. All groups showed significantly lower plaque and gingival scores post-intervention (p < 0.05), with effect sizes ranging from -1.1 to -0.7. No changes in oral health (KAS) were observed. The intervention groups had significantly lower plaque and gingival scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05), but no differences were found between them after adjusting for baseline KAS (p > 0.05). Conclusions This study suggests that including multiple topics in OHE programs for preschool children may not necessarily improve oral health outcomes. Simplified OHE may be more advantageous in terms of time, cost, human resources, and organization.

Surgical Management of Localized Gingival Overgrowth – Case Series

In dentistry, gingival enlargement are frequently encountered. To determine the most effective treatment, accurately identifying the underlying cause is crucial. Inflammation triggered by plaque buildup is the leading cause of gingival enlargement. This typically affects the interdental papillae and can be localized or generalized. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during puberty and pregnancy, can exaggerate gingival enlargement. Additionally, certain systemic medications can contribute to this condition. Successful treatment of gingival enlargement hinges on a four- pronged approach: accurately identifying the cause, improving oral hygiene practices, addressing any aesthetic concerns, and potentially surgical removal of excess tissue.

Oral Hygiene Practice of Geriatric Patients Attending Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Dental Hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu: A Descriptive Study

Abstract Background: Increasing disease burden will elevate public health expenditures having an impact on the economy. Literatures confirm a low utilization rate of dental services and a high oral health disease burden among elders which is regarded as a heterogeneous population in India. There is long term existence of high prevalence of oral diseases. Oral health educational intervention is the most cost effective method as it has a positive impact on the oral hygiene status to prevent oral diseases. Successful oral health educational interventions need planning which requires information regarding oral hygiene practices of the population so that appropriate information education and communication content with mention about the pros and cons of the aids which are professionally recommended and those commonly used respectively could be developed to enhance oral health promotion. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to learn the oral hygiene practices among geriatric dental patients in Chennai. Materials and Methods: An interview was conducted for 250 consented patients aged ≥60 years selected on a convenient sampling technique. Results: The results were analyzed using frequencies from the coded data. Conclusion: Majority of the geriatric dental patients were found to be practicing insufficient oral hygiene with aids which are usually not professionally recommended. The reported dental problems of the elders could be attributed to inadequate and improper oral hygiene practices which necessitate transition in the oral health attitude as the need of the hour strategy through urgent comprehensive oral care educational interventions.

Prevalence and Management of Early Childhood Caries in Preschoolers

ABSTRACT Background: “Early childhood caries (ECC)” is a prevalent and serious oral health issue affecting preschool-aged children globally, with adverse effects on their overall health and well-being. Objective: This center-based research designed to investigate the prevalence and management of ECC among preschoolers within a specific setting and evaluate associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 300 preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years. Clinical examinations were conducted, and data on demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and dental visits were collected through structured interviews. Statistical analysis was performed to assess ECC prevalence and examine associations between demographic/behavioral factors and ECC severity. Results: The prevalence of ECC among preschoolers was 65%, with a mean dmfs score of 4.2. Factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and oral hygiene practices were associated with ECC severity. Management strategies included topical fluoride application, oral health education, and restorative treatments. Conclusion: ECC remains a significant public health concern among preschoolers. Comprehensive oral health programs targeting this population are essential to mitigate ECC burden and improve oral health outcomes. Further research is needed to address systemic barriers and disparities in ECC prevention and management.

Evaluation of oral complications in children undergoing chemotherapy: An observational study.

Chemotherapy, a cornerstone treatment for childhood cancers, can negatively impact oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and evolution of oral complications in these patients. A prospective observational study enrolled 44 children diagnosed with malignancy undergoing chemotherapy at a tertiary care institute in central India. Oral examinations were performed at baseline, with follow-ups at 3-6 and 9-12 months. Data collected included demographics, medical history, oral hygiene practices, and oral lesions. Blood counts and World Health Organization grading for mucositis were used. Descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests analyzed the data (P ≤ 0.05). Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was the most prevalent malignancy. Children reported various oral complaints such as ulcers, bleeding gums, and difficulty eating. Mucositis prevalence significantly decreased over follow-up visits (baseline: 56.8% and second follow-up: 13.3%). Gingival inflammation was present, though mean scores decreased over time. Oral hygiene scores varied without significant changes. Caries experience scores increased from baseline to follow-up. This study identified a high prevalence of ALL and diverse oral complications in children undergoing chemotherapy. While mucositis severity lessened over time, other issues such as caries persisted. These findings highlight the critical need for preventive oral care strategies to safeguard this vulnerable population's oral health.

Influence of Maternal Risk Factors for Occurrence of Early Childhood Caries in Children – A Literature Review

Children with early childhood caries (ECC) may develop caries in their developing permanent teeth also. The etiology of ECC is multifactorial. Amongst the common risk factors, maternal risk factors have been studied a lot and are considered as the risk of developing ECC in primary dentition till 71 months of age. There are various maternal factors that can influence the occurrence of ECC in children, such as the educational level of the mother, socioeconomic status, occupation, mother’s inappropriate feeding practices, frequency of maternal sugar consumption, her oral hygiene practices, and her dental treatment-related experiences. Mothers whether working or homemaker, number of siblings at home, type of family also influence the dental care toward her child suffering with ECC. Factors with economic problems in the family leads to familial stress resulting in maternal psychological distress, which is accompanied by throwing temperaments on her child and can lead to dysfunctional parenting behaviors, which is responsible for having ECC in her child.

Risk factors associated with early childhood caries: A bibliometric analysis

Context: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant oral health problem affecting children worldwide. Its consequences can range from pain and infection to impact on children's quality of life. Research on risk factors associated with ECC is evolving but shows gaps and inconsistencies. Aims: To examine research trends on risk factors associated with early childhood caries in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Methods: A methodology based on the PRISMA 2020 declaration was used, focusing on a systematic bibliometric review. Results: The results showed a significant increase in scientific interest in ECC, especially in 2021 and 2022, with a 98.87% increase in publications. Countries such as India and the United States were leading the research, and current thematic trends lean towards oral hygiene practices and survival analysis. Conclusions: The evolution of the field suggests a focus on emerging areas and adaptability to the changing needs of affected populations.

Comparative Evaluation of Dental Hygiene Awareness among Student Population Studying in Various Technical and Nontechnical Courses.

Achieving patient compliance is a key goal in oral health, necessitating early education on good dental hygiene practices. This study assesses dental hygiene awareness among college students in various disciplines. A questionnaire focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to dental hygiene was distributed to 400 students from medical, nursing, engineering, and other undergraduate programs, divided into groups of 100 each. The survey also considered economic backgrounds and oral hygiene behaviors. Responses were collected online, with data analyzed using the Chi-square test and Pearson's coefficient to determine statistical significance (P < 0.05). All collected responses were valid, revealing that most students, primarily from middle- or lower-income groups, have a satisfactory level of knowledge regarding oral hygiene. Over 90% recognize its importance for overall health. While practices were generally good, areas for improvement were identified, alongside an overall positive attitude. However, infrequent dental visits were noted as a concern. Focusing on improving oral hygiene attitudes and practices among the younger generation could have long-term benefits, especially in developing countries aiming for better oral health outcomes.