Analyzing of oral hygiene habits of geriatric individuals living in denizli province in terms of sociodemographic data and chronic diseases

Objective: The purpose of this study; To reveal the oral health profiles of individuals over the age of 65 in Denizli by examining the number of decayed, filled and missing teeth, plaque and tartar indices. Then, it is aimed to determine the relationship of these data with chronic diseases, sociodemographic data and oral hygiene habits and to contribute to the determination of public health programs. Method: 534 people over the age of 65 who applied to Pamukkale University Faculty of Dentistry and lived in nursing homes in Denizli were included in the study. Participants; They participated in a survey consisting of a total of 19 questions, including demographic questions, questions to determine their current oral status, and questions to determine their oral hygiene habits. In addition, the participants were oral examined and their DMFT and OHI-S values were recorded. Statistical significance level was determined as p<0.05 and the data were analyzed using One Way ANOVA test, Independent Samples T-Test and Pearson chi-square test. Results: A statistically significant relationship was found between the DMFT index and the following parameters (age, place of residence, education level, people they live with, hypertension and diabetes). (p<0.05) A statistically significant relationship was observed between OHI-S and the following conditions (age, education level, people with whom you live, visual impairments and orthopedic disorders). (p<0.05) A statistically significant relationship was found between tooth brushing frequency, brush changing frequency and brushing direction and the following sociodemographic data (education level, place of residence and age). (p<0.05) While toothpaste use was statistically related to age and education level, interface cleaning was only statistically related to education level. (p<0.05) Conclusion: Even though elderly people have very few remaining natural teeth, programs are needed to increase their awareness of oral hygiene. Key Words: DMFT, geriatric, OHI-S