Impact of Neem Stick Brushing on Oral Hygiene: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the Elderly Population

Abstract: - Background: Oral hygiene practices play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, especially among the elderly population. In rural areas like Talavadi, traditional practices such as neem stick brushing are commonly used. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of neem stick brushing on oral hygiene and general health among the elderly population in Talavadi, a village in Erode district, Tamil Nadu. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 80 participants aged 50 years and above who use neem sticks for brushing their teeth. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, and oral examinations were conducted to assess dental health. The study analyzed the frequency of neem stick use, the prevalence of dental caries, and the presence of chronic health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Results: Among the 80 participants, 70% were females, and all were uneducated and below the poverty line. All participants had been using neem sticks for more than one year; 85% brushed once a day, and 15% brushed twice a day. The prevalence of dental caries was low (2.5%), and only a small proportion had hypertension (5%) and diabetes mellitus (1.25%). The findings suggest that neem stick brushing may be associated with good oral health and low prevalence of chronic conditions among the elderly. Conclusion: Neem stick brushing appears to be an effective traditional oral hygiene practice among the elderly in rural Talavadi, contributing to low rates of dental caries and chronic conditions. Further studies are needed to explore the long-term benefits and potential integration of neem sticks into public health strategies for oral care, especially in underserved communities.