Assessment of Oral Health Status for Formulation of Draft Oral Health Policy for the Residents of Chennai City, Tamil Nadu-A Pilot Study

Background: Oral Health is a fundamental human right. It is an integral portion reflecting the status of overall general health. Poor oral health is commonly associated with many systemic diseases. Oral diseases qualify as a major public health problem at global level owing to its high prevalence. India is no exception and due to its large population size, the absolute burden of oral diseases is immense. Oral health is not usually considered as a matter of concern and given priority in most of the developing countries.

Aim: To assess the status of oral health of residents in Chennai for formulating a draft oral health policy.

Materials and Method: A cross-sectional survey was carried out using convenient sampling methodology. Data were collected according to the World Health Organization oral health assessment criteria 2013. The data tested for significance using statistical software packages, SPSS Software version 17.0. Frequency tables were computed. Chi square test was done to test whether the difference in the various parameters is statistically significant.

bOut of 318 males, 117(36.79%) require scaling and 250 (78.61%) of them need restorative treatments. Extraction is indicated for 27 (8.49%). Prosthetic treatment is recommended for nearly 50 (15.72%) of them. It also shows that out of 282 females, around 178 members comprising of 63.12% require scaling, 220 (63.12%) need restorative treatments while extraction is indicated for 78(27.65%) of them and 50(15.72) women were recommended prosthetic treatments.

Conclusion: The study population was characterized by high prevalence of dental caries.