Knowledge, Oral Hygiene Practices, and Barriers to Compliance Among Adult Residents of Adankolo Community, Lokoja, Kogi State

Introduction Several factors influence oral hygiene compliance among adults, including knowledge and awareness, where individuals with higher awareness of oral hygiene benefits are more likely to engage in effective practices. Purpose This study aimed to assess the knowledge, oral hygiene practices, and barriers to compliance among adult residents of Adankolo community, Lokoja, Kogi State. Methodology A cross-sectional research design was employed for data collection from 390 randomly selected adults from Adankolo. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire focusing on oral hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data, with a paired t-test conducted to explore the relationship between knowledge and compliance. Results The findings revealed that 52.3% of participants were male, and 47.7% were female, with the majority (21.8%) aged 36-45 years. Most respondents demonstrated moderate knowledge of oral hygiene practices, with 21.3% strongly agreeing that sugary foods contribute to tooth decay, while 23.8% strongly disagreed on the benefits of daily flossing. Compliance with recommended oral hygiene practices was suboptimal: 50.8% brushed their teeth twice daily, 52.8% used fluoride toothpaste, and 48.2% visited a dentist regularly. Financial constraints, fear of dental procedures, and limited access to resources were identified as significant barriers. A paired t-test showed a statistically significant relationship (p = 0.014) between knowledge and practice compliance. Conclusion The study highlights a gap between knowledge and adherence to oral hygiene practices among adults in Adankolo, exacerbated by financial and systemic barriers. Although basic awareness exists, compliance with preventive measures like flossing and regular dental visits remains inadequate. To improve oral hygiene compliance, regular awareness programs, affordable dental services, and integrating oral health education into primary healthcare services are recommended.