Background: Knowledge and awareness regarding oral health problems of tuberculosis patients are lacking among patients, physicians, as well as dental practitioners.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the oral health status and awareness among the tuberculosis patients in an Indian population.
Methods: Study sample comprised of 210 tuberculosis patients and 210 nontuberculosis subjects. The tuberculosis patients were categorized into new patients (group A), previously treated (group B), and drug-resistant tuberculosis patients (group C). History of present problem and awareness about oral health was noted. Periodontal health status was ascertained using Community Periodontal Index (CPI). Other oral findings were also recorded.
Results: The results were analyzed statistically. 62.9% of total tuberculosis patients had one or more oral problems. Most common problem was tooth pain (34%). CPI score was significantly higher (p<0.05) for tuberculosis patients (2.94) than in control group (1.34). Mean CPI score for groups A, B, and C patients was 2.83, 2.91, and 3.09, respectively.
Conclusion: This study suggests awareness of oral health status and oral manifestations of tuberculosis among physicians and dental professionals.
Keywords: CPI score; Gum bleeding; Periodontal health; Tooth pain.
Copyright © 2015 Tuberculosis Association of India. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.