Percepción de la salud oral y prácticas de higiene bucal en los estudiantes de la división de ciencias de la salud de la Universidad Santo Tomás

Abstract

Introduction: The WHO considers that oral health is essential for people’s well-being and overall health which is why is important treat diseases but also prevent them. This can be achieved through education about the importance of oral health and buccal hygiene practices. Objective: Determinate the perception of oral health and buccal hygiene practices in the students of the faculty of health sciences in Santo Tomás University. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with students from the Faculty of Health Sciences of the mentioned university. Sociodemographic variables and oral hygiene practices were considered, as well as variables related to oral health perception. A univariate and bivariate analysis was conducted, determining frequencies and percentages for qualitative variables, and mean and standard deviation for the quantitative variables. This investigation was executed in accordance with Resolution 08430 of 1993. Results: A total of 297 participants were addressed including 130 dental students, 54 optometry students, 34 dental technology students and 79 physical education students. The results showed a higher positive perception among dental students and a more negative among physical education students. Conclusion: This study showed that 72,05% of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Santo Tomás Uiversity follow good oral hygiene practices by brushing their teeth three times a day and replacing their toothbrushes every three months. Even though a significant percentage (59,61%) use dental floss and mouth wash they do not use them regularly.