A Research for People to Determine the Relationship between Oral Hygiene and Socio-Economic Status

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between oral hygiene and socio-economic status. Study data were obtained from 160 patients admitted to a private dental clinic within one month using a questionnaire which consisted of socio-economic variables. Dental examination was performed by a dentist and oral hygiene was assessed by hygiene sticks using the Quegley-Hein Index. Statistical analysis was performed using t test, variance analysis, and Kruskal-Wallis test. Our study results suggest that increased education status is positively associated with oral hygiene and poor oral hygiene is associated with reduced income per capita. Preventive dentistry should be supported to increase the awareness of the individuals with low and moderate income. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.