Misconceptions regarding dental health care: A cross sectional study

Introduction: In dentistry there are many misconceptions and other improven beliefs which passed from one generation to another. Many of these misconceptions had a significant impact on oral health of population. These misconceptions usually emerge from fake traditional beliefs and non-scientific knowledge. Lack of education is also a major factor which make people believe in these misconceptions. Aim: The aim of this cross sectional self-assessed questionnaire was to assess the prevalence of misconceptions about dentistry in the population of district Murad Nagar U.P. Materials and Method: A self-assessed questionnaire consisting of 20 questions was provided to the patients visiting the OPD in Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, to assess the prevalence of misconceptions about dentistry. A total of 200 individuals were included in the study and data was collected using a validated four-part questionnaire including demographic data, questions regarding dental problems, oral cancer, dental treatments and miscellaneous misconceptions. Results: The results were subjected to statistical analysis after the completion of survey. The results revealed that myths and misconceptions associated with dental treatments were significantly higher among females as compared to males. The people in age group above 50 were found to have more misconceptions as compared to other age groups. Similarly less educated and the people with less income were found to have more misconceptions. Conclusion: Misconceptions regarding dental health still persists in the minds of general population which needs rectification by constant education and awareness regarding quality of dental services provided to enmass.