Assessment of Oral Hygiene Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Among Undergraduate Medical Students of Shivamogga District – A Cross-sectional Survey
R Prithvik, Vivek H. Prakash, J Chethan, Preethi Nagdev, B Anil Babu, Aishwarya RaiAbstract
Background:
Oral health is an integral component of general health, yet it often receives less attention among medical students who are future healthcare providers. Assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to oral hygiene is essential to identify gaps that may influence both personal health and professional practice.
Aim:
This study aimed to assess oral hygiene KAP among undergraduate medical students in Shivamogga district, Karnataka, India.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1466 undergraduate medical students using a prevalidated, structured, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included items assessing oral hygiene knowledge, attitudes towards dental care, and self-reported oral hygiene practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to examine associations with age, gender, year of study, and college.
Results:
A total of 1466 students participated. Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations across multiple domains. Older students (24–28 years) showed better knowledge of fluoridated toothpaste use (Q12,
Conclusion:
The findings indicate that although medical students possess substantial oral health knowledge and demonstrate favorable attitudes, their practices remain suboptimal. This gap underscores the need for integrating structured oral health education into the medical curriculum to promote preventive practices and foster greater awareness. Such initiatives could enhance both personal oral health behaviors of future physicians and the quality of oral health promotion they provide to the community.