The role of mouthwash uses and routine dental visits in dental hygiene among public secondary school students

This study utilized a descriptive survey design to assess dental hygiene practices among public secondary school students in Awka Education Zone, Anambra State. Targeting SS2 students in 20 schools, purposive sampling was employed, resulting in a sample size of 1,063 students. Data was gathered using a validated, self-structured questionnaire divided into demographic and research sections, with responses rated on a four-point scale. Reliability testing yielded a Pearson correlation of 0.75. Responses were collected directly in classrooms, and 1,000 completed questionnaires were retrieved. Analysis involved weighted mean scores and standard deviation, with an acceptance threshold of 2.5. Results indicate that mouthwash use is seen as beneficial for plaque prevention and oral hygiene, with average mean scores above 2.5. Similarly, routine dental visits were recognized for detecting oral issues and maintaining dental health, with average means above the acceptance level, underscoring the importance of dental hygiene practices among students.