Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Toward Oral Health and Its Socio-economic Determinants Among a Community-based Population: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction Oral diseases remain a major global public health concern, disproportionately affecting populations in low- and middle-income countries and contributing to significant morbidity, economic burden, and reduced quality of life. Aim and Objective This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to oral health and to examine their socio-economic and access-related determinants among a community-based population in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 182 purposively recruited participants using a prevalidated KAP instrument administered via Microsoft Forms. Data on demographic characteristics, socio-economic status, and oral health behaviors were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and findings were expressed as percentages and mean scores. Results and Discussion Participants demonstrated high levels of knowledge (mean score 8.56/10; 86%) and generally positive attitudes (73%) toward oral health; however, preventive practices were comparatively suboptimal (74%), particularly with respect to routine dental visits and the use of adjunct hygiene measures such as fluoride toothpaste and interdental cleaning. A pronounced knowledge–practice gap was observed, with 96% of respondents recognizing the importance of regular dental check-ups but only 19% reporting consistent preventive visits. The cost of treatment and dental anxiety emerged as the primary barriers to care, with variations across rural and urban populations. Socio-economic gradients were evident, with lower income and educational levels associated with poorer oral health practices. Conclusion The findings highlight that adequate knowledge and favorable attitudes do not necessarily translate into appropriate health behaviors in the presence of structural and psychological constraints. Addressing oral health disparities in this context requires integrated, community-based interventions that simultaneously target affordability, accessibility, and behavioral barriers to promote equitable oral health outcomes.