Oral hygiene awareness and practice amongst patients visiting the Department of Periodontology at a Dental College and Hospital in North India

OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to assess the oral hygiene awareness and practices amongst patients visiting the Department of Periodontology at Gian Sagar Dental College and Hospital, Ramnagar (Patiala). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out amongst the patients visiting the Department of Periodontology of Gian Sagar Dental College and Hospital, Ramnagar, Patiala. This proposed study was reviewed by the Institutional ethical committee and their clearance was obtained. A total of 1000 patients were selected using a convenient sampling technique and a self-constructed questionnaire was presented to them. Responses from the patients were evaluated in terms of numbers and percentages and statistically also they were highly significant (P < 0.005). RESULTS: The results of the study show an acute lack of oral hygiene awareness and limited knowledge of oral hygiene practices as well as effect of poor oral hygiene on systemic health. CONCLUSION: There is an urgent need for comprehensive educational programs to promote good oral hygiene and impart education about correct oral hygiene practices.