Dental Knowledge and Self-reported Oral Care Practices Among Medical, Pharmacy and Nursing Students
- Author:
Tuti Ningseh Mohd-Dom
;
Shahida Mohd Said
;
Zamirah Zainal Abidin
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Dental knowledge, Oral care, Medical students, Pharmacy students, Nursing students
- From:Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences
2009;7(1):13-23
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the level of dental knowledge among senior medical, pharmacy and nursing students of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and to determine self-reported
practices of oral care. Students were invited to complete a set of questionnaires on knowledge related to causes, prevention, signs and treatment of dental
caries and periodontal disease; and practices related to oral hygiene and dental visits. A total of 206 questionnaire forms were distributed. 204 forms
were returned complete (response rate = 99%). Dental knowledge scores ranged from 0 (no correct answer given) to 16 (gave all correct answers). The mean knowledge scores between the groups were statistically different
(p < 0.05): pharmacy students scored highest (mean = 12.29, 95% CI 11.44, 13.14) followed by the medical students (mean = 12.02, 95% CI 11.33, 12.71)
and nursing students (mean = 10.83, 95% CI 10.40, 11.26). Areas that had lowest knowledge scores were signs and treatment of gum disease. With regard
to oral care practices, majority cited that they brushed teeth at least twice a day (94.6%) and used toothbrush and toothpaste (97.5%). Not many (21.8%)
used dental floss and about half (54.2%) reported visiting the dentist more than twelve months ago. Reasons for dental visits included getting check-ups
(64.6%), restorations (45.6%) and emergency care such as extractions (24.0%). In general students had at least a moderate level of dental knowledge
but demonstrated poor knowledge in some areas. While most reported good oral hygiene habits, behaviour related to dental visits need to be improved.
Findings suggest a need for inclusion of oral health education in the medical, pharmacy and nursing curriculum.
- Full text:W020150619405081809163.pdf