Aim: To assess and examine the oral hygiene status of the school adolescent children in semi-urban areas. Materials and Methods: The examination was done in the semi-urban areas of Chennai involving 100 children. Sterilized mouth mirrors and explorers were used to calculate the Oral Hygiene Index (OHI). They were questioned about their brushing habits and various oral hygiene practices. The scores were accordingly calculated and OHS was determined. Background: Oral diseases have been a persistent public health problem. Good oral health is a state of being free from chronic mouth and facial pain, ulcers, oral and throat cancers, periodontal diseases, tooth decay etc. Poor oral hygiene occurring due to plaque and calculus deposits with increasing age has been reported among adolescents. Oral Hygiene status can be determined by Simplified Oral Hygiene Index method. Conclusion: Oral health awareness is required for getting knowledge, acquiring a good behavior and attitude towards oral health targeted at the adolescents. Hence, everyone should inculcate good brushing habits for a good oral hygiene status.
