Lincoln Memorial University-College of Dental Medicine (LMU-CDM) announces the publication of a research paper by Assistant Professor of Biomedical Science Ehsanul Hoque Apu, B.D.S., M.Sc., Ph.D., in collaboration with Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine Nazeeba Siddika, B.D.S., M.P.H, Ph.D. The publication, titled "Prevalence and Associated Factors of Last Dental Visit and Teeth Cleaning Frequency in Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal: Findings from Nationally Representative Surveys," explores oral hygiene behaviors in these South Asian countries. The article has been published in the peer reviewed PLOS Global Public Health journal.
The study evaluates the prevalence and frequency of teeth cleaning and recent dental visits, along with associated socio-demographic factors, among residents of Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Utilizing the World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) survey data, the study analyzed responses from 8,164 individuals in Bangladesh, 5,374 in Bhutan, and 5,371 in Nepal.
Key findings of the research include Bangladesh had the highest proportion of respondents who cleaned their teeth at least once or twice a day; Nepal had the lowest proportion of respondents practicing daily teeth cleaning; and 94.5% of Nepalese participants reported never visiting a dentist.
The research also revealed that older age and higher educational attainment were associated with better oral hygiene practices. Despite these trends, the overall adherence to recommended oral hygiene practices in all three countries remains poor.
For more information or to read the full research publication click here.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. Lincoln Memorial University-College of Dental Medicine (LMU-CDM) is home to the Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) and Dental Hygiene (DH) programs. It is located in Knoxville at the newly renovated LMU Tower. For more information about LMU-CDM programs contact, CollegeofDentalMedicine@LMUnet.edu.
