Knowledge and attitudes towards oral hygiene practices among school students

Aim: Study was done to assess the practices, knowledge, and attitude among middle schoolchildren aged 10–13 years toward oral health hygiene practice. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 school Students of age group between 10 -13 years were included in the study. A pre-structured self-administered questionnaire consisting of 10 questions were given to the school students to assess their knowledge and attitude towards Oral Hygiene practice. Results: A total of 200(100%) of all the Students brush their teeth once a day teeth, 110(55%) of the Students brush twice a day, 140(70 %) of students brush in horizontal direction, 103(51.5 %) of students brush in vertical direction and only 25(12.5%) of students used mouthwash along with tooth brushing. Among the school Students 170(85 %), 97(48.5 %), 60(30 %) and 50(25 %), were aware that improper oral hygiene would lead to Dental caries, plaque accumulation, halitosis and gum diseases. Majority of the students 180(90%) were aware that they need to visit a Dentist for the teeth related problems Conclusion: Findings confirmed that there is a positive awareness towards Oral Hygiene practice among Middle School Students, but barrier exist towards awareness of ill effects due to improper Oral hygiene.