Oral Hygiene Awareness and Practice amongst Patients Visiting Locum Dentist at Private Clinic

Background: Oral hygiene is a fundamental aspect of general health, yet its importance is often overlooked. In regions like Pakistan, there is a notable deficiency in the awareness and practice of oral health maintenance, influenced by cultural norms and varying levels of education. Objective: The study aimed to assess the oral hygiene awareness and practices among patients visiting a private clinic, focusing on the usage of toothbrushes, secondary cleaning methods, the incidence of halitosis, and patterns in dental visits. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample size of 384 patients selected via convenient sampling. Data were gathered using a pre-validated questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 22. The statistical analysis included descriptive statistics to report frequencies, percentages, and a comparison of oral hygiene practices based on educational level and gender. Results: The majority of participants (59%, n=236) possessed a Bachelor's degree, while 32% (n=128) held a Masters/PhD. Toothbrushing twice a day was reported by 48% (n=192) of the sample, with medium bristles being the most popular choice. Secondary cleaning methods were less frequently employed, with flossing being the most common (39%, n=150). About 27% (n=104) of patients experienced halitosis, and only 40.5% (n=162) practiced tongue cleaning. Dental visits were primarily need-based, with 46.3% (n=178) of participants visiting a dentist only when required. Conclusion: There is a pressing need for public health interventions to enhance the understanding and implementation of oral hygiene practices in Pakistan. The study indicates a critical link between educational initiatives and improved oral health behaviors.