To determine the factors influencing the choice of oral hygiene aids among adult Nigerians
Method: A cross-sectional survey among 171 adult dentate Nigerians selected from waiting rooms at outpatient clinics at the Lagos University teaching Hospital was performed. A semi-structured self-administered questionnaire containing sociodemographics and types of oral hygiene aids as well as reason for selection was used.
Result: Of the subjects, 55.6% were female with the most predominant age range being 26 to 35 years (37.4%). Most (73.1%) were highly educated (i.e. 3o level). This study showed that toothbrush and toothpaste (93.6%) were the main oral hygiene products used. Only 1.8% used chewing sticks. The most commonly used brand of toothbrush and toothpaste was Closeup (57.8%) and Oral B (28.6%) respectively. The most commonly used toothbrushes were of medium bristle consistency (53%). Information from media/ popular brand was the most influential factor in selecting a particular brand of toothpaste (53.6%). Slightly less than half (46.7%) knew fluoride was the active ingredient in toothpaste. A great number (85.3%) did not use dental floss for interdental cleaning but an equally large number (81.3%) used toothpick mainly to pick areas where food particles impacted than for plaque control. More females significantly used dental floss than males.
Conclusion: The selection of oral hygiene aids was based on information from media/popular brand. There appears to be a lack of knowledge on the active ingredient in toothpaste and the ideal implement for interdental cleaning. Education of Nigerians regarding the importance of proper selection of oral hygiene aids, maintainance and use of these aids is required.