Ý THỨC VÀ THÓI QUEN CHĂM SÓC RĂNG MIỆNG TRÊN NGƯỜI BỆNH NHIỄM HIV/AIDS TẠI BỆNH VIỆN ĐA KHOA ĐỐNG ĐA, HÀ NỘI

Abstract

Objective: To describe the oral healthcare awareness and habits among HIV/AIDS outpatients at Dong Da General Hospital, Hanoi. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 110 HIV/AIDS patients aged 18 and older, from February 2022 to February 2023. Data was collected through direct interviews using a structured questionnaire (assessing brushing frequency, brushing methods, use of oral care aids, and dental visit history) and clinical examinations to evaluate the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S). Results: The majority of patients exhibited inadequate oral hygiene, with 52.7% having an average OHI-S score and 31.8% categorized as poor. Regarding daily habits, although 72.7% brushed their teeth at least twice a day, 63.6% used an incorrect horizontal brushing technique. The utilization of interdental cleaning aids was notably low: 12.7% for dental floss and 20.9% for mouthwash. Access to professional dental services was also limited; only 26.4% recognized the necessity of periodic dental check-ups, and a staggering 52.7% had never visited a dentist. Younger patients (18-34 years old) demonstrated significantly better oral hygiene and proper brushing techniques compared to older age groups. Conclusion: The self-care awareness and utilization of dental services among HIV/AIDS patients remain severely limited, highlighting a significant lack of proper hygiene knowledge and psychological barriers to seeking dental care.