Measurement of oral Health Literacy (Reald 30) and oral Health Status Among government school teachers in Thiruvallur district-A cross sectional study
Abstract
Aim:
To assess the oral health literacy (OHL) using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry (REALD-30) and evaluate the oral health status, including gingival health and dental caries experience, among government school teachers in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu.
Introduction:
Oral health literacy is a critical determinant of oral health outcomes, influencing self-care, preventive practices, and treatment decisions. School teachers play a vital role in health promotion among children, yet their own oral health awareness and status remain underexplored. This study investigates the OHL and oral health status among government school teachers, aiming to inform future health education interventions.
MaterialsandMethods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 190 government school teachers in Thiruvallur district, selected through multistage cluster random sampling. OHL was assessed using the REALD-30 tool. Gingival health was evaluated using the Silness and Löe Plaque Index, and dental caries experience was measured through the DMFT index based on WHO criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.
Results:
The majority of participants demonstrated moderate to adequate oral health literacy, with younger teachers tending to score higher on REALD-30. Gender-based analysis revealed better gingival health among female participants. The DMFT scores indicated a notable prevalence of dental caries across the study population, underscoring the need for preventive care, even among educated professionals.
Conclusion:
The findings reveal a moderate level of oral health literacy among government school teachers, with disparities based on age and gender. Despite higher educational attainment, gaps in oral health knowledge and practices persist. Strengthening oral health education within teacher training programs and integrating school-based oral health promotion can enhance both teacher and student outcomes.
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