Betel Nut Husk as Toothbrush Among Mangyans of Philippines

Objectives:
The result of the study will provide facts on the comparison on the effects of using Betel Nut husk as toothbrush and the modern teeth cleaning devices.
It will serve as a promotion for the public to use the correct toothbrush and apply the proper toothbrushing techniques.

Methods: Majority of the Filipinos experienced oral diseases like dental caries, gingivitis and periodontitis. These could have been prevented if proper information and awareness have been disseminated on how to practice good oral regimen. The researchers conducted a study on the use of Betel Nut Husk as toothbrush among the Buhid Mangyans of Occidental, Mindoro. Descriptive Method was used in the conduct of the study. Questionnaire was disseminated and mouth examination was performed. Interview and observation were done to verify the practices of the Buhid Mangyans on the oral care routine.
Results: 92 or 89.32 percent of the subjects used Betel Nut Husk toothbrush occasionally or on unspecific frequency. 103 or 100 percent of the subjects experienced gingival inflammation when they used Betel Nut Husk as toothbrush. This is due to the trauma caused by the Betel Nut husk which impinges the gingiva while using it to clean their teeth. While 95 or its equivalent 92.23 percent of the Buhid Mangyans suffered from gingival bleeding which could be due to the gingival inflammation. Majority of the Buhid Mangyans have gingival recession due to the use of Betel Nut Husk.103 or 100 percent of the subjects have calcular deposit, discoloration and dental caries with the use Betel Nut Husk toothbrush. This could be attributed to the use of indigenous toothbrush which could not actually clean or remove calcular deposits and stains on the entire surfaces of the teeth and that could cause dental caries. 47 or 45.63 percent have cervical abrasion on the teeth when they used Betel Nut Husk toothbrush because of the hard fibers of the husks and improper technique of toothbrushing.
Conclusions: Based on the above data gathered, the use of indigenous toothbrush like Betel Nut Husk and improper technique of toothbrushing by the Buhid Mangyans caused significant effects in the different parts of the oral cavity.