Estimating knowledge about microorganisms of the oral cavity: an investigation

Abstract

Introduction: The human oral microbiota is a complex ecosystem composed of diverse microorganisms that play an essential role in oral and overall health. Alterations of the microbiota not only are responsible for major oral infections,i.e.,caries and periodontal diseases,but also have direct implications in systemic diseases. For that reason,it is essential,not only for health professionals,but also for the general population to have adequate knowledge of them,in order to effectively be able to maintain good oral health.In this research project,the goal will be to estimate the current knowledge of the oral microorganisms in the population. Objectives: The goal of the research project will be to estimate the current knowledge of the oral microorganisms in the population. Furthermore,it will allow us to find out what areas are the most understood,versus what areas lack information and still need some research. Methodology: The methods for this research will be an online 16-items survey. The software used was Google form. The survey was anonymous and voluntary. Results: The average mean grades of the survey for the dental student and health professionals groups were higher than the other groups. Higher scores were obtained on basic overall knowledge,lower scores were obtained on more advanced questions. Conclusions: The general population has an average knowledge of the oral microbiota. The knowledge of the population is higher in general oral health concept,and much lower in specific oral microbiome composition and functions. Consequently,the population lacks essential information needed to prevent the development of oral and systemic diseases. Dental students and health professionals had greater knowledge but,overall,more understanding of the oral microbiome is still necessary.