AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF DENTAL HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN

Children are invaluable resources for a nation, and their health directly influences the development of a healthy society. School-age children, comprising approximately 25% of the population, require focused health care to ensure overall national well-being. Among various health concerns, dental problems, particularly dental caries, are highly prevalent, affecting up to 90% of children by the age of 12. The majority of cavities are associated with dietary habits, such as frequent consumption of sugar-rich foods and beverages, which often develop during early childhood due to changing lifestyles. Dental diseases in children differ from those in adults, despite affecting similar structures like teeth and gingiva, because of differences in primary dentition morphology, eating habits, and limited capacity for maintaining oral hygiene. Common oral health issues in children include dental plaque, dental caries, malocclusion, and gingivitis. Early prevention and promotion of oral health during school age are therefore critical. Educating children and caregivers on proper oral hygiene, alongside regular dental check-ups, can significantly reduce the burden of dental diseases and support healthy growth, learning, and long-term well-being. This study underscores the importance of preventive strategies to promote oral health among school-age children and highlights their role in fostering a healthier population