Patients with Diabetes; Their Perception and Practices towards Oral Health

Abstract

AttachedObjectives: The study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral health among patients attending the clinic for diabetes patients at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional, questionnaire based study among 427 patients was carried out. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions to assess knowledge, 16 questions for practices and 16 statements for attitudes regarding oral health. A total score of >75% was considered as a ‘good’, 50%-74% was considered as a ‘moderate’ and <50% as a ‘poor’ level of the aspect assessed. Results: Majority (74%) were females aged above 50 years. Of the patients 56% recognized an association between diabetes and oral health. Only 15% knew that they were more prone to oral fungal infections though 89% knew that diabetes resulted in delayed wound healing. Oral cancer (72%) was mainly recognized as a complication of poor oral hygiene. Regarding attitudes, 98% believed that they should be vigilant regarding their oral hygiene. While 29% believed that a dentist should be visited at least twice a year, only one patient practiced this. A majority (93%>) believed that brushing teeth twice a day is important for good oral hygiene and 92% claimed to practice this. Conclusions: Overall oral health knowledge and practices among patients were ‘moderate’ and the level of attitudes was ‘good’. Patients expect the clinic to provide regular oral health education and oral examinations.