Work

Comparative assessment of oral health knowledge and dental behavior among individuals with and without hearing impairments in Jordan

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Individuals with hearing impairments face significant barriers in accessing oral health information, which may negatively influence their oral hygiene practices and outcomes. This study aimed to compare oral health knowledge and dental behavior between individuals with and without hearing impairments in Jordan. Methods A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 289 participants, comprising 149 individuals with hearing impairments and 140 individuals without hearing impairments. A validated, self-designed closed-ended questionnaire assessed participants’ oral health knowledge and behaviors. Convenience sampling was employed to recruit participants from centers associated with hearing impairment. Data were analyzed using SPSS® version 22, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Chi-square tests and contingency table analyses assessed group differences. Results Individuals with hearing impairments demonstrated significantly less knowledge regarding toothbrush hardness, frequency of brushing, the importance of routine dental visits, and recognition of gum disease signs (P < 0.05). A smaller proportion of the hearing-impaired group brushed their teeth once or twice daily (82.8% vs. 93.3%, P < 0.001), used dental floss and mouthwash, consumed soda more frequently (P < 0.001), and reported using fluoridated toothpaste compared to individuals without hearing impairments (P < 0.05). Conclusions The substantial gaps in oral health knowledge and practices among individuals with hearing impairments highlight the need for targeted educational interventions. Culturally sensitive tools, such as visual aids, videos, and tailored oral health programs, could improve hygiene practices, reduce disease risk, and enhance the quality of life in this underserved population.

Source: Frontiers in Oral Health

DOI: 10.3389/froh.2025.1643903

Authors: Sabha Mahmoud Alshatrat, Wael Mousa Al-Omari, Abedelmalek Kalefh Tabnjh, Majd M. Alsaleh, Siddharthan Selvaraj