Oral health knowledge, attitude and practice among secondary school students in Kuching, Sarawak
- Author:
Cheah Whye Lian
;
Tay Siow Phing
;
Chai Shiun Chat
;
Bong Cheong Shin
;
Luqmanul Hakim Baharuddin
;
Zhuleikha Bainun Jalil Che’Jalil
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
attitude, dietary habits, oral health, knowledge, practice, secondary school students.
- From:Archives of Orofacial Sciences
2010;5(1):9-16
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Dental caries is a major health problem affecting an
estimated 90% of school children worldwide. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate oral health knowledge, attitude, and practices among secondary school students in Kuching, Sarawak. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire on 209 randomly selected students from four schools. Results showed no significant differences between the gender and age groups in terms of knowledge level, but significant differences were observed between
the schools. The students had positive attitude towards the dental services, but their dental visits were still low due to fear of dental needle and handpieces. Toothbrush and toothpaste were still the
most commonly used oral hygiene aids. As compared to parents and friends, dentist was perceived to have more influence on oral hygiene practices among the students. Girls consumed more sweets, snacks and soft drinks than boys. However, girls spent longer time to brush their teeth and brush more frequently. Oral
health education should be a life-long practice and incorporated into the school environment with the support of teachers and parents.
- Full text:W020150629325712105778.pdf
