Knowledge, attitude and practice about oral health among secondary school level students of Shree Chandeswori higher secondary school, Nala, Kavre.

Thesis Report.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of secondary school children towards oral health and dental care as well as to evaluate the factors that determine these variables. Secondary School children (n=100) of age of 13 years to 18 years attending public school named Shree Chandeswori Higher secondary school in Nala, Kavre were recruited in to this study. The subjects completed a questionnaire that aimed to evaluate secondary school children's behavior (practice), knowledge, and attitude of their oral health and dental treatment. The participants' oral hygiene habits (such as tooth brushing) were found to be regular (i.e. 40% brush twice daily and rest once daily). The study population showed higher awareness of caries (100%) than periodontal conditions (66%). Irregular visits to the dentist were found to be common (49%), and toothache was the major driving factor for dental visits (58.9%). Children had positive attitudes toward their dentists (80%); nevertheless, they indicated that they feared dental treatment (31%). The children in this study also recognized the importance of oral health to the well-being of the rest of the body (96%).The results of this study indicate that children's attitudes toward oral health and dental care need to be improved. Comprehensive oral health educational programs for secondary school children are required to achieve this goal.

Eng.