Exploring oral health awareness, barriers to dental hygiene, and socioeconomic factors in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional observational study

Oral health is integral to overall well-being and is influenced by socioeconomic, regional, and occupational factors. Despite its significance, disparities in oral health awareness and practices persist in Saudi Arabia, warranting a comprehensive investigation to inform targeted public health strategies. This study aimed to assess oral health awareness, hygiene practices, and barriers to maintaining oral health among residents of Saudi Arabia, with a focus on socioeconomic and regional variations. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 967 participants from all 5 main regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire that assessed demographics, oral hygiene practices, barriers to dental care, and awareness of oral health's impact on general health. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with oral health awareness and barriers. Nine hundred ten of the participants (52.5%) were aware of the systemic impact of oral health on general health, while adherence to recommended hygiene practices remained low, with 36.7% brushing twice daily and 40% using dental floss regularly. Southern residents had significantly lower awareness (odds ratio = 0.27, 95% confidence interval, 0.13-0.54, P < .001). Financial constraints (49.1%) and occupational barriers (38.5%) were the most frequently reported challenges, while fear of dental procedures (42.4%) and lack of awareness about the importance of regular visits (43.6%) deterred dentist visits. In the multivariable adjusted model, region of residence and oral hygiene practice frequency were the primary independent predictors of awareness; education and income did not reach statistical significance after adjustment. Significant disparities in oral health awareness and practices exist across Saudi Arabia, influenced by regional, socioeconomic, and occupational factors. Targeted public health interventions, including educational campaigns, workplace wellness programs, and regional outreach initiatives, are essential to addressing these gaps. Aligning these efforts with Saudi Vision 2030 can enhance healthcare equity and improve population health outcomes.