Comparison of Oral Health Awareness, Attitude and Practices between North and South Chennai and its relation to Sociodemographic Factors-A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction : Oral health is an essential component of overall health and is strongly influenced by awareness, attitudes, practices, and sociodemographic factors. This study compares oral health knowledge and practices between North and South Chennai populations to identify disparities related to education and socioeconomic status. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-designed, pre-tested, self-constructed 15-item questionnaire assessing oral health awareness, attitudes, and practices. A total of 105 participants were included in the study. Statistical Analysis: Comparisons between North and South Chennai populations were performed using the Chi-square test, and odds ratios were calculated. Results: The participants’ ages ranged from 11 to 72 years, with a mean age of 21.64 ± 13.56 years. Most participants (70.5%) were aged 11–25 years, and females constituted 71.4% of the sample. Of the participants, 61.9% belonged to North Chennai and 38.1% to South Chennai. South Chennai residents demonstrated higher educational status and better oral hygiene practices, particularly in the use of popular branded toothbrushes, which showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05).