Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Oral Hygiene Aids among Dental Hygienists in Western Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Introduction: Everyday use of oral hygiene aids and annual or biannual oral prophylaxis by dental professionals (Dentists, Dental hygienists, Dental assistants) are two effective ways of maintaining good oral hygiene. The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice about oral hygiene among working dental hygienists in Western Maharashtra, India. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire study was conducted for three months in 2021 among 52 working dental hygienists from different areas of Western Maharashtra. The structured, self-administered, close-ended questionnaire was designed to collect the data which consist of two parts and comprised 31 questions. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Results: In this study, more than 50% of participants were known the importance of oral hygiene maintenance and different types of oral hygiene aids and correct methods of using those oral hygiene aids. About 96% participants thought that proper brushing technique is necessary to maintain good oral hygiene. Conclusion: The study participant’s overall knowledge, attitude and practise regarding oral hygiene aids were seen at average level.