OAR@UM Community:

COVID-19 : investigating the impact of face masks on Maltese adults’ behaviour and attitudes regarding oral health

2025-10-10T12:53:58Z

Title: COVID-19 : investigating the impact of face masks on Maltese adults’ behaviour and attitudes regarding oral health Abstract: As implemented by the Maltese government in the form of preventive measures to deter the transmission of the COVID-19 virus, in accordance to the guidelines published by the WHO (World Health Organization, 2020), the use of face masks became an integral part of pandemic times, to the extent of being mandated. Considering the duration with which such masks were donned, this study explores the hypothesis of face mask use affecting the oral health of the minority of adults living in Malta including ‘mask mouth’ symptoms, dental-service seeking behaviour and oral hygiene habits using the specified research question below. A cross-sectional qualitative online survey was conducted and 419 respondents recruited, with statistical analysis demonstrating the mask wearing behaviour of Maltese adults, the significant relationships between mask wearing and oral health & general health while outlining smokers as high risk for ‘mask mouth’. Implications of this study include improving preventive advice during public health crises such as pandemics and to improve awareness of mask mouth in health care settings. Population – adults residing in Malta Intervention – the daily use of face masks related to the COVID-19 pandemic Comparison – (not present) Outcome – affect behaviour and attitudes towards oral health Description: M.D.S.(Melit.)

Investigating the awareness and use of oral hygiene aids in the Maltese islands

2025-10-10T12:50:26Z

Title: Investigating the awareness and use of oral hygiene aids in the Maltese islands Abstract: The purpose of the Study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and analyse the knowledge, awareness, and use of various oral hygiene aids amongst the Maltese population. Materials and Methods: This study made use of an anonymous questionnaire which was available in two languages, English and Maltese and which was distributed on various social media pages starting in August 2022 with the last response collected in April 2023. The questionnaire had 18 questions which investigated the knowledge, awareness and use of oral hygiene aids. Results and Conclusions A total of 261 individuals participated in the study. This sample size is representative of the Maltese population, (62.8%) being female and 97 (37.2%) being male. 45.6% of participants were aged 8-19 followed by the 30-49 age group (33.3%) then the 50-69 age group (18%) and lastly the 70+ age group (3.1%). The Maltese population has high awareness of different oral hygiene aids with 88.7% being aware of dental floss and 47.7% aware of interdental brushes. Participants were less aware of other oral hygiene aids such as super floss (10.9%) and water flosser (21.5%). With regards to use of the oral hygiene aids, 51.3% of the participants reported brushing their teeth twice a day, while 38.7% reported brushing only once a day. 64.4% reported use of interdental aids, most commonly dental floss at 75.3%. The most prevalent time of use of interdental aids was after tooth brushing at 38.5% followed by after a meal at 26.9%. Multiple significant differences between sex, age and education level were identified with this research. Females brush their teeth (p=0.031) and clean interdentally at a higher frequency (p=0.025). They also have more knowledge and awareness on different oral hygiene aids. Age also influenced brushing habits, with older individuals more likely to brush after meals (p=0.015), while younger groups had higher awareness of dental floss (p=0.004, p=0.001, p=0.025). Education level influenced the timing of brushing (p=0.04), and the type of interdental aids used where individuals with only a secondary education used wooden interdental sticks more frequently than individuals with a post-secondary education (p=0.34) and ones with an under-graduate education (p=0.001). This study provides essential baseline data for the Maltese population, which was previously unavailable. These insights can inform future educational campaigns and preventive strategies targeting demographics with lower awareness and usage of oral hygiene aids. Continued research is recommended to reassess knowledge levels and improve oral health practices across the Maltese Islands Description: M.D.S.(Melit.)

The awareness of the Omani population in using intraoral oral hygiene aids

2025-10-10T12:47:11Z

Title: The awareness of the Omani population in using intraoral oral hygiene aids Abstract: Aim: This study evaluates the awareness and perceptions of interdental oral hygiene aids among the Omani population, with a focus on variations across age, gender, and education levels. The research aims to identify knowledge gaps and provide insights to improve oral health practices. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted in April 2023, involving 744 participants from various regions in Oman. The survey, available in English and Arabic, assessed participants’ awareness, frequency of use, and preferences for oral hygiene products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and interdental aids. Data were analysed using statistical methods to explore associations between demographic factors and oral hygiene practices. Results: The study revealed that 63.7% of participants were female, and the most common age group was 41–50 years. Awareness of interdental aids was significantly higher among participants with higher education levels (p = 0.03), while females demonstrated greater awareness and usage compared to males (p = 0.0045). Participants with postgraduate education were more likely to use fluoridated and anti-sensitive toothpaste. Age-related trends showed younger participants held misconceptions about substituting mouthwash for brushing, with this perception decreasing in older age groups (p = 0.022). Conclusion: The findings highlight significant disparities in oral hygiene awareness and practices based on gender, age, and education. Tailored public health interventions, such as community education programs and professional recommendations, are essential to bridge these gaps and promote equitable oral health outcomes. These efforts could contribute to reducing the prevalence of dental diseases and fostering better oral hygiene behaviours across Oman. Description: M.D.S.(Melit.)

Evaluating how awareness influences public perceptions of fluoride among residents in Malta

2025-10-10T12:41:50Z

Title: Evaluating how awareness influences public perceptions of fluoride among residents in Malta Abstract: Introduction: Fluoride is important for all age groups, and it should be used by everyone, in moderation. It has a crucial role in protecting our teeth. The use of fluoride is a very controversial topic around the world, for one reason or another. In Malta, there are still many residents who do not know much about fluoride, as there needs to be more fluoride awareness. The lack of fluoride use can lead to a number of oral health issues and thus more people need to be aware of it. Aims: The aim and objective of this research is to investigate whether the knowledge of fluoride will affect the people living in Malta’s perception of it, especially since there is evidence that supports this in other countries. Furthermore, the questionnaire inherently promotes fluoride awareness, by encouraging the participants to research and learn more about it. Methodology and Results: The results were obtained via means of a questionnaire that was posted on social media. A total of 222 participants filled in the questionnaire in both English (n=205) and Maltese (n=17). The findings revealed that while many participants had heard about fluoride and were aware of some of its benefits, a large proportion lacked comprehensive knowledge. Specifically, gaps were seen in understanding fluoride dosages (p=0.001), fluoride-containing products (p=<0.001), and conditions such as fluorosis (p=<0.001). A significant relationship was identified between knowledge and perception. Participants who claimed to have greater knowledge tended to have a more positive view of fluoride and were more likely to use it. However, uncertainty remained, especially regarding fluoride use in children (p=<0.001) and water fluoridation (p=<0.001), and thus suggests for more education and awareness. Conclusion: The study concludes that while many are aware of fluoride, significant knowledge gaps still negatively influence public perception and acceptance of it. To improve the use of fluoride and ultimately the oral health in Malta, it is crucial to address these gaps through education, outreaches, and open communication. The findings highlight the need for dental professionals to actively enhance public knowledge and perceptions regarding fluoride, given its significant role in oral health. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.)