Dental Caries and Brushing Techniques Attitude in School Students: An Original Research

INTRODUCTION: Oral health plays an important role in the overall wellness of an individual. Hence in our study, we aim to evaluate the awareness and knowledge about dental caries and pattern of brushing among secondary school students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a questionnaire-based survey among 200 secondary school students to estimate their awareness and knowledge about dental caries and brushing pattern. Only those students with at least one filled, missing, or decayed tooth were considered. The data was presented as percentages. RESULTS: We observed that knowledge regarding dental caries among students was 72.5%. 75.5% students had good knowledge of brushing teeth; nonetheless 30% brushed their teeth twice. Only 21.5% students visited the dental clinic. CONCLUSION: Though good knowledge about dental caries and brushing was appreciated among the students, very few students practiced good oral hygiene habits. Promotion of oral hygiene habits should be motivated at the school level.