The Effectiveness of Non-dominant Hand in Performing Oral Hygiene Care
- Author:
Normaliza Ab Malik
1
;
Aws Hashim Ali Al-Khadim
1
;
Muhammad Syafiq Alauddin
1
;
Siti Nur Farhanah Mohd Desa
2
;
Azlan Jaafar
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Oral hygiene, Oral health, Non-dominant hand, Dental plaque
- From:Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2020;16(No.2):63-68
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
- Abstract: Introduction: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of dental plaque removal and to determine factors that could influence its efficacy when using the non-dominant hand. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was performed on a group of dental students. Dominant hands were determined using Edinburg Handedness Inventory questionnaire, and the dental plaque scores were examined using Quigley-Hein (Turesky) index. All of the participants were examined twice for dental plaque index scores. Data obtained was analyzed using a paired t-test and an independent t-test. Factors which influenced the dental plaque removal were listed and categorized accordingly. Results: A total of 62 dental undergraduates participated in the study. A high percentage of them, (71%, n = 44) were found to be right-handed. There was a significant increase in the dental plaque score for the left-handed participants, from baseline (use of the dominant hand) to follow-up appointment (after brushing their teeth with non-dominant hands) (p< 0.01). A significant change was found between the right- and left-handed participants in the first quadrant of the buccal side (p<0.05). Factors identified to be beneficial in dental plaque control were; using a mirror while brushing, extending brushing time, increasing brushing frequency, using additional tooth aids and powered toothbrushes. Conclusions: This study revealed that left-handed participants have less ability to remove dental plaque with their non-dominant hands. The right-handed participants, showed better controls in plaque removal with their non-dominant hands, compared to their left-handed peers on the buccal side of the first quadrant.
- Full text:11.2020my0649.pdf
