ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS INTERDENTAL ORAL HYGIENE MAINTENANCE AMONG DENTAL AND MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: Inadequate oral hygiene maintenance leads to the accumulation of dental
plaque which predisposes to gingivitis, leading to the onset of periodontal inflammation. For
regular oral hygiene maintenance toothbrush alone is not sufficient for keeping the teeth and
surrounding structures free from plaque. The use of interdental aids are important to
sufficiently clear dental plaque from the interdental areas from time to time.
Aim and Objectives: To determine the Knowledge and attitude among dental and medical
students regarding interdental oral hygiene maintenance.
Material and Methods: Questionnaire survey was conducted among 600 dental and medical
students to record the responses related to knowledge and attitude regarding interdental oral
hygiene maintenance. The responses recorded were subjected to statistical analysis to obtain
the results.
Results: The knowledge about interdental cleaning aids was good and their attitude towards
interdental oral hygiene maintenance was found to be fair among dental students. Medical
students were having inadequate knowledge about interdental cleaning aids and they also had
a very poor attitude towards interdental oral hygiene maintenance.
Conclusion: Knowledge on interdental oral hygiene maintenance was inadequate among
medical students and also their attitude towards interdental oral hygiene maintenance was
very poor hence, it is highly recommended to include a topic in their syllabus on
comprehensive oral hygiene maintaince specifically emphasizing on various types of
interdental oral hygiene aids, their indications and usage. Thereby educating and training
them about interdental oral hygiene maintaince.