A Study To Assess The Knowledge Regarding Oral Hygiene Among The Mothers Of Under Five Children

Abstract

Oral hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, especially in early childhood. Mothers, being primary caregivers, significantly influence the oral health practices of their children. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge regarding oral hygiene among mothers of under-five children at Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Objectives:-To assess the knowledge regarding oral hygiene among mother of children under five year and find out the association between the knowledge level regarding oral hygiene and selected demographic variables.

Method: The study was conducted in Bagadpur village, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. A quasi-experimental design (descriptive research design) was adopted for this study. The sample consisted of 80 mothers of under-five children. Data was collected using a convenient sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire was used as the data collection tool. The collected data was organized in a master data sheet and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, as per the objectives of the study, with the help of SPSS version 20..

Results: The results of the study, analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics showed that the sample group had a mean score of 15.18 and a median of 15, indicating a relatively balanced distribution. The standard deviation was 1.70, reflecting moderate variability. Scores ranged from 11 to 19, with a total range of 8. The mean percentage was 60.72%, suggesting that overall knowledge levels were moderate. Although the questionnaire allowed for a broader potential score range of 0 to 25, the actual observed scores fell within the range of 11 to 19. .

Conclusion:  The study revealed that the majority of mothers of under-five children had moderate knowledge regarding oral hygiene. None of the participants demonstrated an adequate level of knowledge. A significant portion still had inadequate awareness. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to improve maternal knowledge and promote better oral health practices in young children.