Assessing oral health literacy among the residents of Isfahan in 2014‒2015

Oral health literacy (OHL) is one of the most important determinants of oral health. Given the importance of the subject in program planning for promotion of the oral health of the community, this study evaluated OHL among citizens in Isfahan, Iran.
This cross-sectional study was conducted on 758 adults living in Isfahan, who were selected by simple random sampling technique. Data were collected with the use of a questionnaire which consisted of 17 questions on OHL in 4 sections of reading comprehension, perception of numbers, listening and decision making. There were 3 questions on oral health behaviors; a question on potential sources for oral health information, the self-assessment of oral health of participants as well as age, sex and education. The citizens were categorized into three groups with inadequate OHL (0‒9), borderline (10‒11) and adequate OHL (12‒17). T-test, ANOVA, LSD tests, chi-squared, Spearman’s coefficient and multivariate linear regression were applied for statistical analyses verbal consents were achieved.
Of participants, 53% had adequate OHL. The mean (SD) of OHL was 11.1 (4.3) of a total of 17. Woman, older adults and those with higher education scored higher for OHL (p value The study showed insufficient OHL among Isfahan citizens. Health policy maker should have prepare oral health programs to promote OHL in the community.