Assessment of Oral Health Awareness among Undergraduate Medical Students in Raichur District: A Survey

Abstract

Background: Early detection of oral diseases makes them more amenable to treatment and allows the greatest chance of cure. Delay in presentation and/or referral has a significant effect on the associated morbidity and mortality. Lack of general medical practitioner’s knowledge of oral disease has been shown to contribute to delays in referral and treatment. Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of dental awareness among undergraduate medical students in Raichur District, Karnataka, India. The present study is cross-sectional survey conducted among the medical students in Raichur District, Karnataka, India. 140 undergraduate medical students from 4 different years were selected for the present study. The data pertaining to their knowledge, attitude and practice about oral health was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Majority of the undergraduate medical students were aware about the inter-relation between oral health and general health. Clinical relevance statement: The present study aims at evaluating the awareness among undergraduate medical students about the oral health. It also focuses on the need of incorporation of basic knowledge about dentistry in medical syllabi. Proper brushing of teeth and flossing will enable the prevention of both dental caries and gingival diseases.