DOI: 10.36347/sjds.2019.v06i02.005

Pages: 43-48

Introduction The mouth is regarded as a mirror and a gateway to systemic health. Periodontal disease is one of the most prevalent diseases affecting human dentition. There is a lack of population based data on the attitude of individuals towards periodontal therapy in the Dakshina Kannada region. It is essential that the dental practitioners help the patients understand periodontal disease and the oral-systemic link. AIM: The aim of this study was to explore and gain an understanding of patients’ views on their periodontal status, their attitudes towards periodontal treatment, as well as their knowledge of the oral-systemic disease link with the help of a structured questionnaire. Methodology: A total of 300 patients that reported to the Department of Periodontics, A.B.Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, were included in the study. The study was conducted by the means of a structured questionnaire. The first part dealt with basic information and oral hygiene practices. The second part consisted of questions that helped understand the attitude and understanding of the patients towards periodontal therapy and the oral‑systemic disease link. Results and Conclusion: Only 12% of the study group was aware of the bi-directional association between oral health and systemic well-being. This showed us that the level of awareness in this regard is at a bare minimum. Hence, as dental healthcare professionals, it is our duty to not only provide healthcare but also increase the awareness and knowledge that people have about their oral hygiene status and the possible effects it may have on their overall well-being.