| Abstract [eng] |
Relevance of the problem and aim of the work: periodontal diseases globally is widely spread. Periodontitis is the main cause of tooth mobility and tooth loss. It has a connection with systemic diseases, general health and negativelly affects various aspects of patients life. Periodontal diseases also have a significant economic burden on the healthcare system. Even though there are data in scientific literature regarding patients attitude towards periodontal health, in Lithuania little attention is paid to such researches. The aim of this work is to evaluate attitude towards periodontal health among Vilnius University Faculty of medicine Institute of dentistry patients treated by undergraduate students. Material and the methods: a self-administred structured questionnaire with 24 questions was designed based on the aim, tasks of the research and periodontal health surveys that were found in a scientific literature. Cross-sectional study was conducted among VU Faculty of medicine Institute of dentistry patients treated by undergraduate students from September 27th to December 1st, 2023 y. The data was analysed by chi-square test and binary logistic regression using IBM SPSS Statistics 28.0.1.0 version. Data visualization was performed using Microsoft Excel „Microsoft 365“ MSO (version 16.0.17231.20236 of the 2401 edition). Results: 150 VU Faculty of medicine Institute of dentistry patients took part in this study. 78,8% know that it is important to visit a dentist regulary, 66% know that poor oral hygiene is the main cause of periodontal diseases. 84,7% believe that most periodontal diseases are avoidable and 87,3% that it affects general health. 93,3% correctly describes healthy gum characteristics and the main reason of gum bleeding (66%), teeth mobility (60,7%) and gum recession (57,3%). 74,4% brush their teeth twice a day, 65,3% use toothbrushes with soft or very soft bristles. 50% employ rotational brushing techniques, while 20,7% vertical. 45,3% brush teeth for 2–3 minutes, 52% consistently use interdental aids. Those who do not use it claim that the main reason is lack of motivation (47%). 28% use interdental brushes. Patients spend up to 5 euros when purchasing individual oral hygiene products. Conclusions: patients exhibit knowledge regarding the etiology, consequences and prevention of periodontal diseases. Individual oral hygiene habits should be improved. Patients spend up to 5 euros when purchasing individual oral hygiene products. |
