KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS LEVEL OF ORAL HYGIENE MEASURES IN PROSTHODONTICS PATIENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA
Abstract
Introduction: Dental hygiene is the habit of maintaining and improving the health of teeth and gums. The effectiveness of oral hygiene on dental prostheses plays a crucial role in the gingival health and the surrounding structures. Numerous factors may influence a patient's behavior and desire to proceed with necessary prosthodontic treatment. Objectives: This Study Aims to assess the knowledge and awareness level of patients about the proper hygiene measures according to the type of prostheses received in Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study from July to December 2024, used standardized questionnaires distributed online Through social media including participants consisting of all Saudi adults aged 18 and above from both genders. the target sample size for this study was a minimum of participants (384), the margin of error is set at (5%), and the standard deviation of (95%). Results: The study investigated the knowledge and awareness of oral hygiene measures among prosthodontic patients in Saudi Arabia, involving 507 participants with an average age of 31.7 years. Findings revealed a preference for fixed prostheses, with 62.3% opting for crowns, bridges, or veneers. While 74% received clear oral hygiene instructions from dentists, 40.8% did not seek further information on cleaning techniques. Alarmingly, only 20.9% demonstrated a high knowledge level regarding oral care, and 75.9% exhibited low awareness of hygiene measures. The study highlighted significant correlations between knowledge and factors such as age, social status, and occupation, emphasizing the need for improved patient education. Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the urgent need for targeted educational interventions to enhance the knowledge and awareness of oral hygiene measures among prosthodontics patients in Saudi Arabia.