DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjds.2025.v12i06.003

Pages: 94-100

Background: Oral health is a key component of general well-being, yet it remains a neglected area of public health in many developing countries, including Bangladesh. Understanding the prevalence of common dental problems and oral hygiene behaviors is essential for planning effective preventive and educational interventions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of common dental problems and oral hygiene practices among adults in Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Dentistry, Shaheed Syed Nazrul Islam Medical College Hospital, Kishoreganj, and Sadar Hospital, Sunamganj, Bangladesh. A total of 300 adult participants with dental problems from various age groups, ranging from under 20 to over 60 years, were included. Results: The most common age group among participants was 30–39 years (27.67%), and the majority were female (62.0%), with a female-to-male ratio of 1.63:1. Gingivitis (41.0%) and dental caries (27.0%) were the most frequently reported dental problems. While 65.4% used toothbrushes for cleaning teeth, a considerable portion relied on fingers, neem sticks, or meshwak. Among toothbrush users (n=196), 81.6% brushed once daily, and 51.0% used a mixed brushing technique. Only 40.7% reported rinsing their mouth after meals, and a significant proportion did not engage in flossing (62.0%) or tongue cleaning (85.3%). Regarding dental visits, only 21.3% had sought routine dental checkups, and most (68.8%) of them visited only when experiencing a problem. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high prevalence of dental problems and inadequate oral hygiene practices among adults in Bangladesh. Public health initiatives focusing on oral health education and promotion of regular dental checkups are urgently needed to address these gaps.