Oral health care knowledge and practices of a group of deaf adolescents in Lagos, Nigeria

Objective: This study sought to determine the oral health care knowledge and practices of a group of deaf adolescents in Lagos. Methods: The study involved 50 students of Wesley School 1 for the Deaf, Lagos (26 males and 24 females, aged 10-19 years, mean 13.3+/-2.8). Information about previous dental care, oral hygiene, and snacking habits were obtained through a questionnaire and sign language by the teachers. Results: Only 12 percent of pupils had received dental care. Eight percent and 72 percent, respectively, gave correct answers to causes of tooth decay and bleeding gums. Ninety-four percent brushed their teeth once daily, with no significant sex difference (P>.05). Reported dental problems include bleeding gums (36%), tooth discoloration, and tooth decay. The majority of pupils (60%) preferred biscuits and soft drinks as snacks. More than 90 percent were willing to have a dental check-up. Conclusions: The oral health knowledge and practices of this group of children will improve through a controlled school-based oral health education program.