General Population's Awareness of Commercially Available Dental Products

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this survey was to assess the knowledge of general population regarding commercially available dental products.
Study Design: Cross-sectional survey.
Place and Duration of Study: Three different undergraduate institutes of Islamabad from April to June 2014.
Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed and filled by 70 participants of ages 15-30 years.The sample of students was selected from three under graduate institutes of Islamabad.
Results: In Section A, about 20 (28.6 %) participants were using only toothpaste to maintain their oral hygiene. One (1.4%) participant was using only dental floss. About 48 (68.6%) people were using fluoridated toothpaste.About 44 (62.9%) participants were using medium bristle toothbrush. In Section B, 19 (27.1%) participants were using teeth whitening agents, out of which 17 (24.3%) participants were using toothpaste to whiten their teeth. Fifteen (21.43%) participants got their required results. Sixteen (22.87%) participants found no side
effects after using it. In section C, 27 (38.57%) and 54 (77.114%) participants only went to dentist when they had the toothache and gingivitis respectively. Forty-five (64.29%) participants completed their antibiotic course. Twenty-one (30%) participants thought that it was alright to use medicated products without consulting doctor.
Conclusion: Most of the people are using fluoridated toothpaste and medium bristle toothbrush. Many people use over the counter teeth whitening agents. And many people use over the counter antibiotics for dental problems and they think it is alright if they do not complete antibiotic course.