Analysis of oral health habits in students of the “17 de Abril” Educational Unit
Keywords:
ADOLESCENTE; CARIES DENTAL; CONOCIMIENTOS, ACTITUDES Y PRÁCTICA EN SALUD; HIGIENE BUCAL.; ADOLESCENT; DENTAL CARIES; HEALTH KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, PRACTICE; ORAL HYGIENE.; ADOLESCENTE; CÁRIE DENTÁRIA; CONHECIMENTOS, ATITUDES E PRÁTICA EM SAÚDE; HIGIENE BUCAL.Abstract
Introduction: dental caries constitute one of the most prevalent pathologies among adolescents, with adequate oral hygiene being a key factor for its prevention and control.
Objective: to analyze the level of knowledge and oral hygiene practices among high school students.
Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Quero during 2024. A survey on oral hygiene habits was administered to a simple random probabilistic sample of 123 first- and second-year high school students from the “17 de Abril” Educational Unit. Descriptive statistical methods were used for data processing, adhering to medical ethics.
Results: 70 % of students attributed caries to sugar consumption, while only 23 % associated it with microorganisms. 82 % reported brushing after every meal, and 97 % indicated they learned the technique from their parents. 85 % recognized the importance of dental floss, and 67 % identified fluoride as a beneficial substance. However, only 38 % use fluoride rinses, and 39 % visit the dentist only when experiencing problems. 80 % replace their toothbrush every three months, reflecting an appropriate habit. The overall level of knowledge was rated as moderate in 60,6 % of participants.
Conclusions: adolescents exhibit acceptable oral hygiene practices; however, conceptual gaps persist regarding the etiology of caries and the importance of periodic dental check-ups. Strengthening preventive dental education is recommended to consolidate healthy habits and reduce the risk of oral disease.
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