# Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude, And Practices Among Residents Of Al-kharj, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study explores oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among adults in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, revealing gaps between awareness and actual dental care behaviors.

## Contribution

The study provides population-level insights into oral health practices in Al-Kharj, identifying demographic disparities and informing targeted public health strategies.

## Key findings

- 90.2% of participants knew tobacco causes oral cancer, but only 55.6% brushed twice daily.
- Women and older individuals showed significantly better oral health knowledge than men and younger participants.
- Only 44.7% of participants routinely visited a dentist, indicating poor dental care practices.

## Abstract

Several studies highlight the widespread prevalence of dental health problems within the Saudi population. To effectively develop public health strategies, it is vital to assess oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours at a population level. This study aimed to examine these three domains among adults aged 18 and older residing in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2024, involving a sample of adult visitors at shopping malls and public parks in Al-Kharj. Data were gathered using a validated, self-administered, structured questionnaire addressing knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to oral health.

The study included 367 participants aged 18 years and above. Among them, 90.2% were aware of the link between tobacco use and oral cancer, and 89.1% held favourable views regarding the use of fluoridated toothpaste to prevent cavities. However, only 55.6% brushed their teeth twice daily, and just 44.7% routinely visited a dentist. Women exhibited significantly better knowledge than men (p = 0.0001), older individuals had greater knowledge than younger ones (p = 0.004), and participants with a monthly income above 10,000 SAR scored higher on oral health knowledge (p = 0.003).

Although many respondents demonstrated good oral health knowledge, fewer than half maintained positive attitudes and practices necessary for proper oral care.