Özet:

The importance given to oral and dental health is one of the developmental indicators of a society. Research has shown that social and economic factors have great effect in individuals accessing oral and dental health services. This study was performed in order to determine the relationship between the socio economical levels of individuals and their oral hygiene, exhibit the present situation, and make suggestions for protective oral and dental health services. This study was performed in a private dental clinic in Istanbul. No sample was selected in the study, and 150 patients who applied to the clinic within the relevant study duration and agreed to participate in the study were included in the study. According to study findings, the most important three factors affecting oral hygiene levels were found to be occupation, income level, and education status. It was determined that low education and socio economic status have important roles in decay formation. As education levels and socio economic status increased, so did awareness on oral and dental health. Tooth brushing rates also increased with socio economic status. Thus, oral hygiene was affected positively. In this direction, it can be said that so as to promote the oral and dental health level of the population, public should be raised the awareness about oral and dental health and it should become a state policy. Protective health care services should be included in first step health services and the definition of family dentist should be made.

Anahtar Kelimeler: