Prevalence and Associated Factors of Oral Health Problems on the Overall Health and Well-Being of People in the Ho Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

Oral health is a vital component of general health and quality of life, yet it remains one of the most neglected aspects of public health in developing countries. This study examined the effect of poor oral health on the overall health and well-being of people living in the Ho Municipality of Ghana. Specifically, it sought to assess the prevalence of oral health problems, identify factors associated with poor oral health and well-being, and determine the oral health-seeking behavior of residents. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 461 respondents selected through a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression at a 95% confidence level. The findings revealed that more than half of the respondents (54.7%) had experienced at least one oral health problem, with mouth odor (15.8%), gum disease (13.5%), oral ulcers (13.0%), and tooth decay or loss (12.4%) being the most common. Although socio-demographic and behavioural factors such as age, occupation, income, and tobacco use showed observable trends with well-being, none were statistically significant (p > 0.05). The study further found low preventive oral health-seeking behaviour, with only 28.4% visited a dentist more than four times a year, and 23.6% had never visited a dentist. Additionally, 22.8% never brushed their teeth, and only 33.4% used fluoride toothpaste. The study concludes that oral health problems are prevalent in the Ho Municipality and are influenced by poor oral hygiene practices, limited awareness, and inadequate access to dental care. It recommends strengthened oral health education, integration of oral health into primary healthcare, and expansion of the National Health Insurance Scheme to cover basic dental services.