The effect of COVID-19 on oral health education and maintenance amongst the local community

Abstract

Background: This study reports the results of a 2021-2022 survey regarding the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on oral health education & maintenance in the local community. Aims & Objectives: Assessing the levels of education with regards to the importance of oral health maintenance, before and after the quarantine period, and its effects on oral health management, dietary and smoking habits, in different socio-economic classes. Subjects, materials & methods: Anonymous questionnaire was posted on multiple different social media groups to reach a variety of people within the local community. Results: A total of 354 questionnaires were filled in, 67.51% of which were females and 32.49% males. Most participants were employed (51.98%). This was followed by students who did not work part-time (21.75%) and those who worked part-time along with their studies (13.56%). 8.76% of participants were retired whilst 3.95% were unemployed. Taking into consideration the employment status, the pandemic did not affect the job status of 81.92% of participants. On the other hand, 11.02% lost their job, whilst 7.06% suffered from a reduced income. The majority, 48.02% did not gain weight, whilst 44.35% did. This is also related to the fact that 40.68% increased their sugar consumption whilst 45.20% did not. 44.07% of the participants claim to have maintained a healthy diet, whilst the same amount, 44.07% claim that they have not. 60.73% of the participants have engaged in physical activity, and 66.10% also claim to have affected their mental health status due to the pandemic. Most of the participants, 86.44% did not increase their alcohol consumption, as well as 85.59% did not increase their soft drink consumption. 80.23% of the participants were non-smokers, and only a few of the participants changed their smoking frequency habits. Only 40.96% brush their teeth twice a day, 36.44% brush once, while the rest either never brush their teeth, or alternate between once or twice a day. The pandemic seemed to not affect this frequency in 77.12%. 55.08% of the sample size still do not make use of mouthwash, as part of their oral hygiene regime. 65.71% claim to have experienced no difference in awareness with regards to oral hygiene importance during the pandemic. Conclusion: Individuals from different socio-economic groups have different knowledge and motivation with regard to oral health maintenance, including, oral hygiene procedures, dietary habits and physical activity.