A questionnaire survey to assess the knowledge of dental Students on oral habits and its ill effects

Abstract

Oral habits are patterns of muscle contraction and have a very complex nature. These habits can cause damage to dentoalveolar structure; hence, dentists play an important role in providing necessary information to parents. The aim of the present study is to determine the knowledge of dentists on various oral habits and its ill effects on children. Questionnaire with 20 questions was prepared and the survey was conducted among 103 dental practitioners. The responses were statistically analyzed through SPSS software. Descriptive statistics were done. Chi square test was done with a p value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Many were aware about most of the habits, whereas frenum thrusting and bobby pin opening were known by a few. 74.8% were aware of the difference between mouth breathers and nasal breathers. More than 48.5% were aware of the consequences of thumb sucking. This study shows that the knowledge of dental students on oral habits and its ill effects was not satisfactory and measures need to be instilled to create awareness about the same. No significant association between the responses of practitioners based on year of study was noticed (p=0.529)