Quality of life and Oral hygiene practice among adult tribals of western Maharashtra

This study aims to assess the quality of life and oral hygiene practices among adult tribal populations in Western Maharashtra. The research explores the relationship between socio-economic factors, cultural influences, and access to healthcare services on oral hygiene behavior and overall quality of life. Using a cross-sectional survey, data was collected from a sample of adult tribal individuals across different villages in the region, employing structured questionnaires. The findings highlight a significant gap in oral health awareness, with many participants exhibiting poor oral hygiene practices, limited access to dental care, and a lack of preventive measures. Despite this, the quality of life was found to be largely influenced by factors such as dietary habits, physical health, and social connections, which showed a positive correlation with oral health practices. The study underscores the need for targeted oral health education and community-based interventions to improve both oral hygiene and overall well-being among adult tribal populations in Western Maharashtra. Recommendations include strengthening healthcare infrastructure and culturally sensitive oral health programs to address the unique challenges faced by these communities