Knowledge, Attitude and Awareness of the Role of Nutrition in Oral and Dental Diseases among Undergraduate Students of a Dental Teaching Institution in Sangareddy District

Abstract

Without good oral and dental hygiene, there can be no health. A Robust mouth is necessary for overall well-being. What exactly does this remark signify, even though it may be well known to all of us? Less often than not, oral health, or the condition of our mouths, is really significant. General health is vital for our overall psychological well-being and experience of life, as demonstrated by this significant indicator.

Untreated tooth decay, commonly referred to as cavities, is the most common ailment in the world, while being mostly avoidable. Maintaining our oral and dental health is crucial when considering the possible negative effects of untreated dental disorders, such as pain, diminished quality of life, missed school days, broken family relationships, and lower productivity at work. This article emphasizes about the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of the role of nutrition in oral and dental diseases among private dental undergraduate students of a dental teaching institution in Sangareddy District. Majority of the dental undergraduate students were well aware with the knowledge about the importance of nutrition in maintaining good oral health and hygiene essential for overall health.

A total of 200 dental undergraduate students participated in the study - 90% of respondents were aware that oral health is essential to general health. 85% correctly identified tooth decay as the most common preventable oral disease. 92.5% recognized the protective role of fluoride in dental care. 75% reported that they brush their teeth twice daily, and 60% visited a dentist at least twice a year. While 85% abstained from tobacco, only 45% flossed regularly. 80% expressed willingness to adopt healthier behaviours to improve oral health. Half of the respondents (50%) reported assisting others, like the elderly or disabled, with oral hygiene