Knowledge and experiences of oral health among teacher students in Livingstone, Zambia : a questionnaire study

Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate the experience of dental care and oral hygiene, and the knowledge about gingivitis, periodontitis and dental caries among teacher students, in Livingstone, Zambia. Another aim was to investigate whether oral health was included in the curriculum. The study was carried out among teacher students at David Livingstone College of Education. The questionnaire consisted of 32 questions. 150 questionnaires were handed out, an external reduction appeared of 15 questionnaires and altogether 135 students participated in the study. The results showed that 74 of the students had never received dental care, while 59 had received dental care. The main reason why they had been seeking dental care was toothache. Toothbrush and toothpaste were the most common agents used for cleaning teeth. The overall knowledge about oral diseases was good. Most of the teacher students had received information about oral health in previous schools. The teacher students were positive to inform about oral health when they start practicing as teachers but they requested more information and knowledge to be familiar with the topic.