Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None
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Background: The burden of oral health diseases is still a burgeoning problem in many developing countries as well as developed country for which KAP significantly contributes.
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the Knowledge, Practice, Behavior and Management of Oral health and Dental care as well as to evaluate the factors that determine these variables.
Materials and Methods: The study Participants (n=311) were the first year students of the Dental & Paramedical Colleges at Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India. Data were collected by means of self administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 16.Statistical significance was determined by chi-square test, and the level of significance was set at P<0.05.
Results: The study reveals that 56 % of study participants having knowledge about more than two dental problems. Approximately 80% participants agree that dental problems can be prevented. The participant's oral hygiene habits (such as tooth brushing) were found to be regular. The study population showed approximately 46% have not visited anywhere for their dental treatment. More than 60% of participants have seen or heard about oral health education programme.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that student's attitude towards oral health and dental care needs to be improved. Comprehensive oral health educational programs are required to achieve this goal.