Oral Health Assessment and Hygiene Behaviors in Professional Handball Athletes

Statement of the problem: Athletes, particularly those in contact sports like handball, face significant oral health challenges due to their intense physical activities. Effective oral health management in these athletes is crucial to prevent dental trauma and maintain overall oral hygiene. Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of pericoronitis in young handball athletes through an intraoral clinical examination. Materials and methods: The study was conducted with 42 professional handball athletes from the Vikings Handebol Campos club. A clinical examination was performed by a single trained observer using a disposable wooden spatula and natural light. Results: The results detailed the oral health behaviors, including the frequency of dental visits, brushing habits, use of interdental care, and fluoride product. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the oral health practices of professional handball players and highlights the need for targeted oral health interventions in athletes.