Assessment of Knowledge and Practices among School Age Children about Dental Problems in Relation with Residence

Abstract

Background : Dental diseases have a detrimental childhood, as have an impact on self-esteem, eating ability, nutrition and general health. Oral health knowledge is an essential prerequisite for health-related practices. Aim of the study : The study aimed to assess knowledge and practices among school age children about dental problems in relation with residence. Research Design : A descriptive design used to conduct this study. Setting: The study conducted at El Shahid Amr Abdel Guyed primary school at Kafr Tohormos city and Nasr El din primary school at Haram city. Subjects : A purposive sample composed of (210) child aged from 10 to 12 years old. Tools of data collection: Two tools, Tool [I] Interviewing Questionnaire to assess children’ knowledge regarding dental problems. Tool [II] Reported practices checklist to assess children’ practices regarding dental care. Results: The study finding showed that 73.3 % of the studied sample had poor level of total knowledge about dental problems. Moreover, 46.2 % of the studied sample had inadequate level of total practices about dental care, and there was a strong positive correlation between school age children knowledge and their practice regarding to dental care related to residence. Conclusion: From this study it can be concluded that the majority of studied sample had poor level of total knowledge about dental problems and less than half had inadequate level of practices regarding dental care. Recommendation: Establish continuous educational programs for school age children to teach the proper practices for dental care.