Assessment of Oral Health and Hygiene Among Selected Secondary School Students in Osogbo Osun State
Chapter One
Abstract
This study revolved around assessing the oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among secondary school students in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. A quantitative survey research design was adopted to gather data from a sample of 120 respondents. A structured questionnaire was designed and administered to collect relevant information regarding the students’ oral health knowledge, behaviours, and experiences. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS27, which facilitated the presentation and analysis of the findings. Hypotheses were formulated and tested using the t-test to determine the significance of differences in various aspects of oral health among the student population. The findings of the study revealed several noteworthy insights into the oral health status of secondary school students in Osogbo. It was observed that there was a significant disparity in oral health knowledge and practices between male and female students. Additionally, socioeconomic factors were found to influence oral hygiene practices among students, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address disparities. Furthermore, the prevalence of common oral health problems was significantly associated with students’ oral hygiene practices, emphasizing the importance of promoting positive oral health behaviours. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of addressing oral health disparities among secondary school students in Osogbo. It highlights the need for comprehensive oral health education programs, gender-specific initiatives, and school-based interventions to improve oral health outcomes. Moreover, the findings emphasize the significance of addressing socioeconomic disparities and fostering collaboration with parents and caregivers to promote oral health at home. It is recommended that stakeholders collaborate to implement these recommendations and conduct longitudinal studies to monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions over time.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Oral health is a fundamental component of overall health and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines oral health as a state of being free from chronic mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancer, oral infection and sores, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other diseases and disorders that limit an individual’s capacity in biting, chewing, smiling, speaking, and psychosocial wellbeing. Good oral health is essential for maintaining quality of life, yet it remains one of the most neglected areas in health care, particularly among adolescents .
Adolescents constitute a significant proportion of the population and are in a critical developmental stage characterized by rapid physical, psychological, and social changes. This period often includes the establishment of long-term habits and behaviours, including those related to oral hygiene. The adoption of appropriate oral hygiene practices during adolescence can significantly reduce the prevalence of oral diseases later in life. However, despite its importance, oral health among adolescents is often compromised due to inadequate knowledge, poor attitudes towards oral hygiene, and insufficient access to dental care services .
In Nigeria, the burden of oral diseases is high and remains a significant public health issue. Osun State, like many other regions in Nigeria, faces challenges related to oral health. These include limited access to dental care facilities, a shortage of oral health professionals, and low awareness of oral hygiene practices. Secondary school students in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, are not immune to these challenges. They represent a crucial group for oral health interventions because the habits formed during this stage can last a lifetime .
Understanding the oral health status and hygiene practices among secondary school students in Osogbo is essential for developing effective health promotion and disease prevention strategies. This study aims to assess the oral health and hygiene practices among selected secondary school students in Osogbo, Osun State, to identify gaps and inform interventions that can improve their oral health outcomes .
One of the primary concerns in oral health is the prevalence of dental caries among adolescents. Studies have shown that dental caries is the most common chronic disease in this age group. The high prevalence of dental caries can be attributed to several factors, including poor dietary habits, inadequate oral hygiene practices, and lack of regular dental check-ups. These factors are compounded by limited access to preventive dental care and health education .
Oral hygiene practices such as regular tooth brushing, flossing, and the use of fluoride toothpaste are crucial in preventing dental caries and other oral diseases. However, studies have shown that many adolescents do not adhere to recommended oral hygiene practices. This can be due to a lack of awareness about the importance of oral hygiene, cultural practices, or simply negligence. Effective oral health education programs in schools can play a significant role in improving the oral hygiene practices of adolescents .
In addition to dental caries, periodontal disease is another major concern among adolescents. Periodontal disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis, is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth. Poor oral hygiene practices and the lack of regular dental cleanings can lead to the development of periodontal disease. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to gingivitis due to hormonal changes that can affect the gums. Educating adolescents on proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of regular dental visits is essential in preventing periodontal disease .
Access to dental care is a significant barrier to maintaining good oral health among adolescents. Many adolescents, particularly in low-income regions, do not have access to regular dental care. This can be due to a lack of dental facilities, financial constraints, or a lack of awareness about the importance of regular dental check-ups. Governments and health organizations need to address these barriers by providing affordable and accessible dental care services to adolescents .
The role of parents and caregivers in promoting oral health among adolescents cannot be overstated. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping the oral hygiene habits of their children. They are responsible for providing the necessary tools for maintaining oral hygiene, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, and for ensuring that their children adhere to recommended oral hygiene practices. Additionally, parents should educate their children on the importance of oral health and encourage regular dental visits .
Schools also have a critical role to play in promoting oral health among adolescents. School-based oral health programs can be highly effective in educating students about the importance of oral hygiene and providing them with the necessary skills to maintain good oral health. These programs can include regular dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, and educational sessions on proper brushing and flossing techniques. By incorporating oral health education into the school curriculum, schools can help to instill good oral hygiene habits in students from a young age .
In essence, oral health is a fundamental component of overall health and well-being. Despite its importance, oral health is often neglected, particularly among adolescents. Adolescents are in a critical developmental stage where long-term habits and behaviours are established. Therefore, promoting good oral hygiene practices during this period is essential for preventing oral diseases later in life. In Nigeria, and specifically in Osogbo, Osun State, the burden of oral diseases among secondary school students is significant. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improving access to dental care, providing oral health education, and involving parents and schools in promoting good oral hygiene practices.
Statement of Problem
Despite the critical importance of oral health for overall well-being, it remains significantly neglected, especially among adolescents. In Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, secondary school students face substantial oral health challenges, including a high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases. These issues are exacerbated by limited access to dental care facilities, a shortage of oral health professionals, and insufficient awareness and education regarding proper oral hygiene practices (Kumar, 2022).
Current research highlights the prevalence of dental caries among adolescents as the most common chronic disease within this age group. However, there is a notable gap in the assessment of specific knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to oral hygiene among secondary school students in Osogbo. While studies in other regions emphasize the importance of oral health education and preventive measures, such as regular tooth brushing and dental check-ups (Petersen et al., 2021), similar comprehensive studies are lacking in this context. This absence of localized data hinders the development of targeted interventions that can address the unique challenges faced by these students.
Moreover, the role of socio-economic factors in influencing oral health practices among Nigerian adolescents has not been extensively explored. Many adolescents in Osogbo come from low-income families, which significantly impacts their access to dental care and preventive services (ALBashtawy, 2022). Understanding the socio-economic barriers and their effects on oral health behaviours is crucial for designing effective public health strategies that can mitigate these disparities.
Additionally, the influence of cultural beliefs and practices on oral health habits remains under-researched. Cultural norms and misconceptions about oral hygiene can lead to poor practices and neglect of dental care (Khamaiseh & ALBashtawy, 2023). There is a need for studies that explore these cultural dimensions and how they affect adolescents’ oral health behaviours in Osogbo.
Objectives of the Study
The general objective of this study was to assess the oral health and hygiene practices among selected secondary school students in Osogbo, Osun State. The specific objectives include:
- To determine the level of knowledge regarding oral health and hygiene among the students.
- To assess the oral hygiene practices and behaviours of the students.
- To identify the prevalence of common oral health problems among the students.
Research Questions
To achieve the objectives of this study, the following research questions were addressed:
- What is the level of knowledge regarding oral health and hygiene among secondary school students in Osogbo?
- What are the oral hygiene practices and behaviours of these students?
- What is the prevalence of common oral health problems among these students?
Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses were formulated to guide this study:
- There is no significant difference in the level of knowledge regarding oral health and hygiene between male and female students.
- Oral hygiene practices do not significantly vary among students of different socio-economic backgrounds.
- The prevalence of oral health problems is not significantly associated with students’ oral hygiene practices.
Significance of the Study
The significance of this study on the assessment of oral health and hygiene among selected secondary school students in Osogbo, Osun State, is multifaceted, addressing critical gaps in public health knowledge, policy formulation, and community health outcomes. Understanding and improving oral health in adolescents is pivotal for several reasons, each contributing to the broader goal of enhancing overall public health.
Firstly, this study is crucial for establishing a baseline of oral health status and hygiene practices among secondary school students in Osogbo. By providing empirical data on the prevalence of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and other oral health issues, this research will highlight the most pressing dental health challenges facing adolescents in this region. This baseline data is essential for public health officials and policymakers to recognize the extent of the problem and to prioritize oral health in the public health agenda.
Secondly, this study aims to identify specific knowledge gaps and misconceptions about oral hygiene practices among adolescents. Understanding what students know about oral health, how they perceive its importance, and what practices they follow (or fail to follow) is critical for designing effective educational interventions. The findings can inform the development of tailored health education programs that address these gaps, promote better oral hygiene habits, and ultimately reduce the incidence of oral diseases.
Moreover, the study addresses socio-economic and cultural factors that influence oral health behaviours. By examining these determinants, the research will provide insights into the barriers that prevent adolescents from accessing proper dental care and maintaining good oral hygiene. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions that consider the socio-economic realities of the population. For instance, programs that provide affordable or free dental care services, distribute oral hygiene supplies, or integrate oral health education into school curricula could be proposed and implemented based on the study’s findings.
The study also holds significant implications for public health policy and planning. Policymakers can use the research outcomes to design comprehensive oral health strategies that are evidence-based and context-specific. For example, the data can support the allocation of resources to areas with the greatest need, the training and deployment of more oral health professionals in underserved regions, and the implementation of school-based oral health programs. These strategies can lead to more effective use of resources and better health outcomes for the adolescent population.
Furthermore, the study’s focus on secondary school students is particularly important because habits formed during adolescence often persist into adulthood. By promoting good oral hygiene practices early, the study has the potential to contribute to long-term improvements in oral health, thereby reducing the burden of oral diseases in the future. This preventative approach is cost-effective and can lead to substantial savings in healthcare costs associated with treating advanced oral diseases.
In addition, the findings from this study could serve as a valuable resource for future research. By providing comprehensive data and analysis, this study can form the basis for longitudinal studies that track changes in oral health over time, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and identify emerging trends in oral health behaviours among adolescents.
Scope of the Study
This study focused on selected secondary school students in Osogbo, Osun State. It assessed their level of knowledge regarding oral health and hygiene, their oral hygiene practices and behaviours, and the prevalence of common oral health problems. The study was limited to students in public and private secondary schools within the urban area of Osogbo. Data collection was conducted using questionnaires and oral examinations carried out by trained dental professionals. The study period spanned six months, from January to June 2024.
Operational Definition of Terms
Oral Health: A state of being free from chronic mouth and facial pain, oral and throat cancer, oral infection and sores, periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and other diseases and disorders affecting the mouth and teeth.
Oral Hygiene: The practice of keeping the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy to prevent disease. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
Adolescents: Individuals in the transitional stage of development between childhood and adulthood, typically between the ages of 10 and 19 years.
Secondary School Students: Students enrolled in a school that offers education after primary school, typically including grades 7 through 12.
Knowledge of Oral Health: The understanding and awareness of concepts related to maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing oral diseases.
Oral Hygiene Practices: Behaviours and routines that individuals engage in to maintain oral health, such as brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash.
Prevalence: The proportion of a population found to have a particular condition at a specific time.
Socio-economic Background: The social and economic factors that characterize the environment in which an individual is raised, including family income, parental education levels, and occupation.
References
- Kumar, M. P. S. (2022). Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards oral health among law students in Chennai. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 8(7), 650–653.
- Morgan, J. P., Isyagi, M., Ntaganira, J., Gatarayiha, A., Sarah, E., Roomian, T. C., … & Jane, R. (2018). Building oral health research infrastructure: The first national oral health survey of Rwanda. Global Health Action, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/16549716.2018.1477249
- Morse, J. M., Barrett, M., Mayan, M., Olson, K., & Spiers, J. (2022). Verification strategies for establishing reliability and validity in qualitative research. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 1(2), 13-22. Retrieved from http://www.ualberta.ca/~ijqm
- National Bureau of Statistics of Nigeria. (2007). 2006 Nigeria Population Census. Federal Republic of Nigeria.
- Newman, I., & Benz, C. R. (2020). Qualitative-quantitative research methodology: Exploring the interactive continuum. Southern Illinois University Press.
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