The effect of gingival bleeding on oral home care practices in Saudi Arabia

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between self-reported gingival bleeding, oral health perception, practices, and concerns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional survey among undergraduates of University of Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia using a self-administered item structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences and P < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The response rate was 96.3%. The prevalence of self-reported gingival bleeding among respondents was 48.79%. Individuals with gingival bleeding were significantly more likely to rate their dental and gingival health as fair/poor, use of strong brushing stroke during tooth brushing and worsening condition of teeth despite daily tooth brushing. They also expressed worry about the gingival color and less likely to be satisfied about the appearance of their teeth and to have received professional instruction on tooth brushing. CONCLUSION: Data from this survey revealed an established relationship between gingival bleeding, perceived dental and gingival health, worry about the color of gingiva, satisfaction with the appearance of the teeth, and visiting dental office because of gingival bleeding.