Assessment of gender-based periodontal health differences among cohort of Pakistani young adults - A comparative cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To analyze and evaluate the periodontal health differences and oral health behaviour among male and fe-male Pakistani young adults.
Methodology: During January 2024 to June 2024, 400 participants (male 200, female 200) were evaluated by the Com-munity Periodontal Index (CPI) to ascertain periodontal status and oral hygiene measures were determined using a questionnaire. To compare variables chi-square test was used, p-value of <0.05 regarded as statistically significant. SPPS used for statistical analysis .
Results: CPI Scores 1 (56%), 2 (31.5%), and 3 (2.5%) were higher in males. Both genders showed statistically signifi-cant association with CPI scores (P< 0.01). The frequency of tooth brushing was higher among females by 18.5% com-pared to only 6.5% of males brushing their teeth twice daily. Males (30.4%) had visited a dentist while the rate for fe-males was 25.8%. The use of inter-dental aids was 34.5% and 7.5%, between females and males, respectively.
Conclusion: Although current tooth brushing habits fall short of the international guideline, we found males having more favourable attitude towards oral health behaviors as compared to female. To enhance oral health, it is crucial to adopt proper oral hygiene practices and utilize interdental aids.

Keywords: Periodontal Index; Health Behaviour; Periodontal Pocket; Public Health Dentistry