Prevalence of Misconceptions and Taboos about Dental Health Based on Educational Qualification

BACKGROUND: This study aims to evaluate the impact of educational qualifications on dental and oral health-related misconceptions and taboos prevalent in selected local populations. The main objective is to correlate variations in oral hygiene practices, knowledge, and attitudes toward self-medication with educational qualifications and demographic factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital using a pretested and validated questionnaire. Data were collected from 448 individuals aged 18 years and older, excluding dentists, dental hygienists, dental mechanics, dental technicians, dental nurses, and other dental professionals. RESULTS: In the present study, we tried to determine the level of dental awareness among the given sample and wanted to evaluate it based on their educational qualifications. The level of dental awareness was highest in Group D (68.28%), followed by Group C (63.1%). Group A (32.54%) was lower than Group B (49.03%). The level of awareness was distinctively higher in Groups C and D than in Groups A and B. This could be attributed to their formal education level and increased general awareness due to digital and media access. CONCLUSION: Various dental myths persist within the population. To combat unhealthy practices, health professionals must provide intensive health education and promote the adoption of healthy habits. Professionals must understand these myths and beliefs as they pose significant barriers to seeking appropriate treatment.