Oral Health Knowledge and Practices in Individuals with Chronic Systemic Conditions. A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the oral health knowledge and practices among individuals with chronic systemic conditions.

Study Design: Observational / Cross-sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Qassim University dental hospital over a period of seven months from Sep 2024 to April 2025.

Methods: A total of 297 participants with diagnosed chronic systemic conditions were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected via a structured electronic questionnaire covering demographics, medical history, oral health knowledge and practices, and perceived barriers. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square/Fisher’s Exact Test, and Spearman’s correlation were applied, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of 297 participants were included, with the majority aged over 60 years 108(36.4%) and predominantly male 209(70.4%). Diabetes 136(45.8%) and hypertension 111(37.4%) were the most common chronic conditions. A significant association was found between type of chronic illness and awareness of its impact on oral health (p < 0.001), with diabetic participants showing greater awareness. Similarly, self-reported medication- related oral health effects and receipt of oral health education were significantly associated with the type of condition (p < 0.001). Positive correlations were observed between oral health knowledge scores and practices like brushing, flossing, and dental visits, particularly among diabetic and hypertensive participants.

Conclusion: Oral health knowledge and practices differed significantly among individuals with chronic systemic conditions, with those having diabetes and other illnesses demonstrating better awareness and behaviors compared to hypertensive patients.