KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF ORAL HEALTH AMONG JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS OF GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL ENEKA, OBIO/AKPOR LGA, RIVERS STATE

TOPIC: KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF ORAL HEALTH AMONG JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS OF GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL ENEKA, OBIO/AKPOR LGA, RIVERS STATE
 
TOPIC IS SUITABLE FOR: 
Public Health Department
Community Health Department
Nursing Science Department
Dental Therapy / Dental Technology

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION (PREVIEW)
1.1 Background to the Study
Globally, dental issues have persistently posed a significant public health challenge, with every individual experiencing poor oral hygiene at least once in their lifetime. Oral health issues have impacted approximately 3.9 billion people worldwide, and this challenge has intensified over time. Untreated caries in permanent teeth were the dominant factors associated with periodontitis, while untreated decay in deciduous teeth was also noted (Azodo, & Abanaba, 2022).
As noted by Lawal and Oke (2024), the Fédération Dentaire Internationale characterises oral health (OH) as ‘A multi-faceted aspect of health which includes the ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with confidence and without pain, discomfort, and disease of the craniofacial complex’. The significance of OH is broadly recognised and acts as an indicator of a person's overall well-being (Lawal et al., 2023). Dental cavities and injuries during childhood can significantly impact the oral health-related quality of life for young individuals. Maintaining good oral hygiene is most effectively achieved by managing the buildup of plaque on teeth, as this is the primary contributor to dental caries and various other dental ailments. Over 500 million children worldwide experience untreated cavities in their primary teeth (Igbinosa, & Yusuf, 2022). During the developmental stage, young individuals often exhibit variations in their dietary choices, tending to indulge in sugary or acidic foods, and may also adopt detrimental habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking.
Studies show that understanding oral hygiene is essential for successful implementation (Andé & Ogundipe, 2021). A study conducted among nursing students indicated that there was some awareness regarding the link between systemic diseases and oral health; however, the overall knowledge levels varied considerably among the different groups of students (Andé & Ogundipe, 2023). This variation indicates that educational initiatives should be customised to target particular deficiencies in understanding among young individuals. In a similar vein, Lawal and Oke (2024) observed that a significant number of adolescents in Nigeria demonstrated merely average knowledge concerning oral health practices, which has a direct correlation with their attitudes and behaviours in upholding good oral hygiene.
The perspectives of secondary school students regarding oral health hold significant importance, as they directly impact their everyday habits. Positive attitudes frequently correlate with improved oral hygiene practices; nonetheless, various studies indicate that negative attitudes continue to exist among adolescents, often stemming from misunderstandings about dental care or insufficient motivation to uphold oral hygiene (Ephraim-Emmanuel et al., 2025). For example, certain students might not recognise the necessity of routine dental examinations or may undervalue the significance of brushing their teeth twice a day. This gap between understanding and application highlights the necessity for thorough educational approaches that not only educate students but also involve them in fostering positive perspectives on their oral health (Janada, Ikhodaro, & Ibiyemi, 2024).
Moreover, the practical dimensions of oral health behaviour underscore the disparity between understanding and real-world application. A notable proportion of secondary school students exhibit inadequate oral hygiene practices, even though they possess a certain degree of awareness regarding appropriate dental care (Lawal & Oke, 2023). In a particular study, it was noted that 65.5% of students possessed a solid understanding of oral hygiene, yet only 70.5% consistently engaged in good oral hygiene practices (Ephraim-Emmanuel et al., 2025). This disparity indicates that merely offering information is inadequate; it is crucial to adopt strategies that motivate students to effectively convert their knowledge into action.
The significance of educational institutions as nurturing spaces for fostering positive oral health practices is paramount. Educational institutions have a distinctive opportunity to shape the lives of young individuals by incorporating organised initiatives that weave oral health education into their academic framework. Lawal and Oke (2024) highlight the significance of engaging educators and health professionals in schools to ensure the delivery of uniform messages regarding oral hygiene. Such initiatives can cultivate a setting where effective practices are established and upheld among peers. Moreover, engaging with the community through outreach initiatives can significantly improve the impact of these educational endeavours (Andé, & Ogundipe, 2025).
Grasping the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to oral health among secondary school students is crucial for formulating effective strategies to enhance their overall dental health (Janada et al., 2024). The relationship among understanding, mindset, and application highlights notable deficiencies that must be tackled through focused educational efforts. By encouraging constructive mindsets and offering practical advice on sustaining proper oral hygiene, educational institutions can significantly influence the development of healthier habits in young individuals. Future research ought to persist in examining these dynamics to guide policy-making and program development focused on improving oral health outcomes for this vulnerable population hence the need for this study.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding oral health among secondary school students is a critical concern in public health because of its impact on long-term oral health outcomes (Igbinosa & Yusuf 2024). Despite the essential role of oral health in overall well-being, numerous secondary school students possess inadequate knowledge regarding oral hygiene maintenance, demonstrate apathetic attitudes, and partake in insufficient practices. This gap requires an examination of the current state of oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among this demographic, along with the formulation of strategies to rectify deficiencies. Studies demonstrate that inadequate oral health awareness in adolescents constitutes a major obstacle to attaining appropriate oral hygiene habits. Janada et al. (2024) observed that students with access to educational resources still possessed a limited comprehension of fundamental oral health principles. Likewise, secondary school students frequently overlook the enduring advantages of preventative oral health practices, as observed by Igbinosa and Yusuf (2023). These findings highlight the urgent requirement for customised treatments to improve oral health literacy in this demographic.
The attitudes held regarding oral health play a crucial role in shaping students' readiness to embrace and sustain beneficial practices. Regrettably, research indicates a troubling pattern of apathy and neglect among adolescents when it comes to maintaining proper oral hygiene. Okoronkwo et al. (2022) emphasized that numerous students regard oral health as less important compared to other health issues, resulting in insufficient prioritisation in their daily practices. This lack of concern is further exacerbated by cultural and social influences that downplay the significance of oral health care. Furthermore, Onigbinde et al. (2024) reported that while students in professional health-related fields exhibited better attitudes due to their academic exposure, this attitude is not reflected among secondary school students, who often remain unaware of the connection between attitude and oral health outcomes. This disconnect highlights the importance of developing captivating educational initiatives that promote favourable perceptions of oral health among younger individuals.
The practices related to oral hygiene among secondary school students frequently lack consistency and sufficiency, even though they play a vital role in the prevention of oral diseases. Consistent brushing and flossing, in conjunction with regular dental examinations, are essential practices that numerous adolescents neglect to follow. Okoronkwo et al. (2023) observed that although a number of students indicated they brushed their teeth twice a day, a notable percentage either completely overlooked this practice or engaged in it inconsistently. In a similar vein, the research conducted by Janada, Ikhodaro, and Ibiyemi (2022) revealed an insufficient comprehension of appropriate brushing methods and the significance of utilising fluoride toothpaste. This underscores a discrepancy between understanding and implementation, indicating that even when learners possess knowledge of oral hygiene practices, they may not reliably put them into action. Furthermore, Igbinosa and Yusuf (2023) highlighted that preventive behaviours, including regular dental visits, are frequently neglected because of misinformation or restricted accessibility, which further intensifies the problem.
It is crucial to tackle the challenges related to the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of oral health among secondary school students to enhance oral hygiene results and avert long-term oral health issues (Azodo & Abanaba, 2021). The results from these studies collectively emphasise the need for interventions grounded in evidence that address the knowledge gap, promote positive attitudes, and support sustainable oral health practices within this essential age group.
1.3Aim/Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of oral health among junior secondary school students of government secondary school Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State. Specific objectives of the study are;
i.To determine the level of knowledge regarding oral health among junior secondary school students in Government Secondary School Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State.
ii.To assess the attitudes of junior secondary school students towards oral health in Government Secondary School Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State.
iii.To examine the oral hygiene practices adopted by junior secondary school students at Government Secondary School Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State.
iv.To identify barriers to proper oral hygiene among junior secondary school students at Government Secondary School Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State.
v.To propose strategies for enhancing oral health education and practices among junior secondary school students at Government Secondary School Eneka, Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State.
OTHER PARTS OF CHAPTER ONE INCLUDE:
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Hypothesis
1.6 Significance of the Study
1.7 Scope of the Study
1.8 Limitations of the Study
1.9 Operational Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO 
REVIEW OF LITERATURE (PREVIEW)
This chapter critically examines relevant literature that would assist in explaining the research problem and furthermore recognizes the efforts of scholars who had previously contributed immensely to similar research. The chapter intends to deepen the understanding of the study and close the perceived gaps. This chapter therefore focuses on the concept of Oral health, overview of oral hygiene, knowledge of oral health among students etc. The chapter covers the following subheadings:
2.1 Conceptual Framework
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.3 Empirical Review
2.4 Summary of Literature Review.

CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY (PREVIEW)
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Study Area 
3.3 Population of the Study
3.4 Sample Size
3.5 Sampling Technique
3.6 Instrument for Data Collection
3.7 Validity of the Instrument
3.8 Reliability of the Instrument
3.9 Method Of Data Collection 
3.10 Method of Data Analysis
3.11 Ethical Consideration

CHAPTER FOUR
RESULTS AND FINDINGS (PREVIEW)
Note: The results are presented in tables and charts.
4.1 Data Presentation
4.2 Socio-Demographic Analysis
4.3 Analysis of Research Questions
4.4 Test of Hypotheses

CHAPTER FIVE
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
5.1 Discussion of Findings    
5.2 Implications of findings to nursing 
5.3 Limitations of the study
5.4 Summary of the study 
5.5 Conclusion 
5.6 Recommendations  
5.7 Suggestions for further studies 
REFERENCES
APPENDIX  

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