Self-perception regarding dental aesthetics, knowledge and attitude of traumatic dental injury and halitosis among people of Aurabani, Sunsari district of Eastern Nepal

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Increased concern over dental appearance has been observed during childhood and adolescence to early adulthood. The study was conducted with objectives to assess the self-perception of dental aesthetics, knowledge, attitude and management of dental trauma and halitosis.Materials and Methods: Self-administered questionnaire translated in Nepali language consisting of 32 questions was used. The completed questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics.Results: Out of the total study population, 63% were satisfied with their overall tooth appearance and 71.7% with their tooth color. Twenty-nine percent had experienced dental trauma. More than half of the study population thought that immediate treatment was required after dental trauma. Fifty seven percent of the villagers had halitosis.Conclusion: The research clearly shows that the people of Aurabani VDC were satisfied with their tooth color and overall tooth appearance; however the knowledge regarding emergency management of dental trauma, the cause and management of halitosis was insufficient.JCMS Nepal. 2015;11(1):6-8