Year : 2020

Volume : Volume 11

Issue : Issue 2s

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Diksha S. Somkuwar.
dikshaprosthodontist@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Fluorosis has attained an alarming dimension all over the world. It has been identified as an endemic disease among which Maharashtra is facing serious health problems. This study is aimed to determine the knowledge about fluorosis among the rural population examined during oral health screening camps, and correlate the perception of dental fluorosis and to assess opinions about the appearance of dental fluorosis with the psychological health of the rural population.  Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was used for the assessment of knowledge, attitude, and esthetic perceptions toward dental fluorosis among the rural population of Melghat region of Maharashtra. A cross‑sectional study was conducted in melghat where patients who were screened positive for dental fluorosis were selected. Results: The present study revealed that only 16% of study populations were aware of the term dental fluorosis. The study participants had a positive attitude towards the prosthodontic treatment of dental fluorosis as 90 % of them were ready to take the treatment if provided and 70% responded that they do not find their teeth to be esthetic. Conclusion: Dental fluorosis is not only a cosmetic problem that impairs social well‑being but also affects oral health‑related quality of life.

Keywords: Attitude, Dental Fluorosis, Questionnaire, Dental Care.