Perceptions and Myths Regarding Oral Health in Karachi, Pakistan

Objectives: Lack of education along with traditional beliefs and socio-cultural factors leads to the development of false perceptions and myths. This study assessed the prevalence of dental myths and perceived knowledge regarding oral health care and hygiene practices amongst low socio-economic groups in Karachi, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study included a sample of 576 from 48 villages of the 8 union councils of Gadap Town, Karachi, Pakistan. The subjects were interviewed through a formulated questionnaire that was translated into Urdu language by an expert panel, to determine their perceptions towards oral health and hygiene practices as well as the prevalence of common dental myths. Results: Response rate was 94.5%. Forty seven percent respondents believed in the myth of tooth extraction affecting the eye vision, this was significantly associated with the socio-demography of respondents. Seventy three percent thought that tooth extraction is not the ultimate remedy for pain relief and it was statistically significant with age and educational status of participants. Twenty five percent considered bleeding while brushing to be normal, was significantly associated with age and education level. Impact of oral health on general health was positively responded by 68% while 72.5% respondents did not think that retention of baby teeth is important. Both these perceptions were significantly associated with age and level of education. Conclusion: The study concludes that Pakistani population has considerable believes in myths and false perceptions regarding oral health issues. This concern needs to be tackled at a wider horizon, through health education which helps in developing personal skills along with reorienting health services to facilitate the low income dwellers.