Myths about dentistry among rural population in Tiruchengode

Abstract

Objectives: Myths are used to convey religious or idealized experience and to establish behavioural models. Due to false traditional beliefs and non-scientific knowledge people have myths about dentistry. The aim of this study is to assess the myths prevalent among the population in two villages near Tiruchegode in Tamilnadu. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted in a sample of 310 rural residents. The questionnaire consisted of 15 closed ended questions on demographic details and myths regarding dentistry. Results: The study results showed about 65.7% of subjects agreed that placing cloves or chewing tobacco relieves pain due to decay. Majority of the study population (67.5%) considered that it is better to extract the tooth rather than saving it. More than half of the study subjects (51.2%) agreed that dental treatment and visit to dentist should be avoided during pregnancy. Around 34.3% of people believed that extraction of teeth in the upper jaw caused loss of vision. Conclusion: The findings of the study showed the prevalence of various myths regarding dentistry and dental treatment is present among rural population in two villages near Tiruchengode. It is the duty of the dentist to create awareness among rural population to mitigate the myths prevailing about dentistry.