ASSESSMENT OF ORAL HEALTH STATUS AND TREATMENT NEEDS IN RURAL POPULATION OF PUNJAB: A HOSPITAL-BASED DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

This hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the oral health status and treatment needs in the rural population of Punjab, India. Methods: A total of [specify number] participants from various rural communities were included in the study. Oral health examinations were performed by trained dental professionals using standardized methods to evaluate dental caries, periodontal status, and other oral health parameters. The participants' treatment needs were recorded based on the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease in the rural population of Punjab. The majority of participants required restorative and periodontal treatment, indicating a substantial unmet oral health treatment need. Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need for oral health interventions and improved access to dental care services in rural areas of Punjab to address the prevailing oral health disparities and improve the overall oral health status in the rural population.

Keywords:

Oral health status, treatment needs, rural population

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