HOSPITAL DENTISTRY: ORAL HYGIENE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF INPATIENTS IN A TERTIARY HEALTH FACILITY IN SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: The practice of hospital dentistry aims to prevent and eliminate potential sources of infection, including inflammation and painful symptoms caused by oral problems that may affect systemic conditions.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the oral health-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of inpatients regarding their oral hygiene status, with the goal of promoting good health and well-being.

Methods: This was a descriptive study conducted among hospitalized patients at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital wards, following ethical clearance and informed consent from each participant. Data on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) were collected using a questionnaire. Participants were also examined orally to assess their oral hygiene status using the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S). Comparisons between categorized KAP and OHI scores were analyzed using Chi-square tests.

Results: A total of 110 inpatients aged 17 to 75 years (mean age: 47 ± 2.3 years) participated in the study; 46 (41.8%) were male and 64 (58.2%) female. Regarding oral hygiene practices, 105 (95.5%) used a toothbrush and toothpaste, 21 (19.9%) brushed twice daily, and none used a tongue cleaner. While 53 (48.2%) had poor knowledge, 38 (34.5%) had negative attitudes, and 21 (19.9%) demonstrated good practices. Poor oral hygiene status was observed in 51 (46.2%) participants. Among those with good knowledge, 30 (52.6%) still had poor oral hygiene, and among those with positive attitudes, 34 (47.2%) also had poor oral hygiene (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Although participants demonstrated average knowledge, their attitudes and practices were suboptimal, with most exhibiting poor oral hygiene status. This condition predisposes them to dental caries, periodontal disease, and halitosis, which directly or indirectly impact general health. A preventive approach, through hands-on moderated oral health care and awareness programs within hospital wards, could improve both hospital stay and post-discharge outcomes.