DefinePK

Abstract

Oral health greatly affects the overall health and well-being of children. Dental problems are not the only diseases associated with poor oral hygiene because it is also associated with systemic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Objectives: To determine the level of awareness and oral hygiene behaviors among school-going children in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2025 to August 2025 in Government Primary School Shakaro Manglawar. Fifty students were selected via convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 using descriptive statistics. Results: The study results show that 66% of participants were male, and 60% were above 11 years. 66% brushed once daily, while 34% used a toothbrush and toothpaste. 26% visited the dentist, often only in pain. Half of the participants were unaware of tongue hygiene. Conclusions: Limited awareness and inconsistent hygiene practices were observed. School-based interventions are crucial to promote oral hygiene in rural children.