AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF ORAL HYGIENE AND ITS ROLE IN GENERAL HEALTH AMONG SCHOOLCHILDREN AGED 9 – 15 YEARS IN PATHANAMTHITTA DISTRICT, KERALA

Oral hygiene in childhood plays an important role in preventing dental problems and promoting general health later in life. This study assessed the level of awareness and knowledge regarding oral hygiene and its role in general health among schoolchildren in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. A school-based pre- and post-intervention study was conducted among 500 children aged 9-15 years from randomly selected schools. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that assessed knowledge of basic oral anatomy, preventive oral hygiene practices, and the relationship between oral health and general health, before and after a structured oral health education session, and were analysed descriptively. Baseline knowledge varied considerably across topics. Children showed better awareness of the number of adult teeth, recommended brushing frequency, and the importance of oral health for overall health. In contrast, knowledge of tooth functions, the supporting structures of teeth, appropriate brushing practices and duration, early signs of tooth decay, and the limitations of rinsing alone was relatively low. Males reported slightly higher proportions of favourable baseline oral hygiene practices than females, although this was not statistically tested. Knowledge improved substantially across all assessed domains following the education session; however, because the post-test was administered immediately and there was no control group, these short-term gains require confirmation through longer-term follow-up. The findings highlight the need for regular school-based oral health education programmes, supported by parental involvement, to strengthen children's awareness and promote healthy oral hygiene behaviours.