Knowledge, Behavior and Self-perception of Oral Health in Kampala, Uganda

Objectives: To describe oral health Knowledge, oral health behaviors and self-reported oral health status in a group of adults aged 18-36 and to assess the relationship between socio-demographic factors and self-reported oral health status. Methods: A convenience sample of 150 adults responded to a self-administered structured questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, Chi-square Analyses, and Fisher's Exact Tests. RESULTS: The majority (75%) of the participants were between the ages of 18-25 and were female (62%). Over half of the participants (58%) had no knowledge of possible connection between oral health and systemic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, or pre-term birth. Less than 6% reported not owning a tooth brush or toothpaste; 56% indicated they brushed their teeth twice a day and 10% flossed daily; most participants (68%) had no knowledge of dental floss and only 15% reported a routine dental check-up during the past year. The majority (59%) rated their teeth to be in fair or poor condition while 30% reported loose teeth and 55% reported bleeding gums with brushing. Over half of the subjects (52%) reported that they have ignored tooth pain in the past hoping it would go away. There was no significant association between gender, age, employment status, education and self-perceived rating of teeth and gums. There was a significant association between income and self-perceived rating of teeth (p=.049), with increase in income result in higher rating of teeth health. Conclusions: These findings suggest the need to develop community-based oral health education programs which emphasize the connection between oral health and overall well-being and promote preventive-oriented practices including routine dental visits.