Official publication of Magadh University and Kolhan University, Government of Bihar and Jharkhand, India
Year : 2024
Volume : Volume 16
Issue : Issue 5
Address for correspondence :
Dr. Navneet Kumar
drnavneet96@gmail.com
Introduction: Prisoners make a special group of population as they are different from other people in the context of their “freedom of movement.” The prisoner’s area psychologically, socially, morally, and economically affects the group, which leads them to neglect their general as well as oral health. This study was carried out to assess the oral health status and treatment needs of prisoners in the Central Jail, Patna, Bihar. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 prisoners of the Central Jail, Patna, Bihar, using a convenience sampling method. The data collection was carried out with the help of a self-prepared questionnaire, and the clinical assessment of oral health was done using the World Health Organization Oral Health Assessment form (2013). The data were analyzed statistically using the Statistical Package for Social Science version 20.0 Software. Statistical significance level was fixed at P < 0.05. Results: The mean age of subjects was 30.89 ± 5.4. Male subjects were 68% and female subjects were 32%. Maximum were from 175 (43.8%) lower socioeconomic class. 28.5% had an adverse habit of consuming smoking and alcohol. The maximum duration of imprisonment was 3–6 years (50.75). The decayed, missing, and filled teeth score was 4.35 ± 1.59. 4–5 mm pocket depth was present in 36%. 35% of subjects had leukoplakia, 38.5% had ulceration, 6.8% had acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, 5.3% had candidiasis, and 9% had abscess. Significant association (P < 0.05) was found between dentition and periodontal status with duration of imprisonment. Conclusion: From the present study, it was concluded that there was a prevalence of dental caries, oral mucosal lesions, suboptimal periodontal health, and varying degrees of dental fluorosis. The quality and quantity of dental healthcare provided to and received by prisoners are significantly below acceptable standards.It necessitates urgent attention to these at-risk groups, particularly with the factors contributing to their inadequate oral health status.