Perceived importance of oral health among patients attending Katutura Hospital general outpatient department and dental clinic, Namibia

OBJECTIVE: To examine determinants of oral health knowledge, perceived oral health status, perceived dental needs, and clinically assessed tooth decay among adults attending Katutura Hospital, Namibia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted among adults attending the dental clinic and general outpatient department. Of 660 invited participants, 639 were included in the final analysis (response rate 96.8%). Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing socio-demographic characteristics, oral health knowledge, oral hygiene practices, perceived oral health status, and perceived dental needs. Clinical oral examinations were performed to assess tooth decay. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors independently associated with the outcomes. RESULTS: Most participants (89.7%) demonstrated good oral health knowledge. Tertiary education was the only independent predictor of good oral health knowledge (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.47; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54-3.97) and was associated with lower odds of tooth decay (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.27-0.57). Brushing twice or more daily was significantly associated with good self-rated oral health (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.45-2.84). Employment status was inversely associated with perceived dental needs (AOR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.51-0.99). CONCLUSIONS: Education was the principal determinant of oral health knowledge and clinical tooth decay, while oral hygiene practices influenced perceived oral health. Strengthening oral health promotion and improving access to preventive services may reduce inequalities and unmet dental needs in Namibia.