Assessment of Zonal Inequalities in Oral Health Status among Students of Trans-Ekulu Girls’ Secondary School, Aguowa Community, Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Early awareness of oral health is critical for the prevention of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and other oral health conditions. Among adolescents, various factors—such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, access to dental care, and socioeconomic influences—play a significant role in shaping oral health outcomes. This developmental stage is particularly important, as behaviors established during adolescence often persist into adulthood. Consequently, this study focuses on students within the secondary school age group, as they represent an appropriate population for evaluating oral health patterns. Purpose: This study aimed at assessing zonal Inequalities in Oral Health Status among Students of Trans-Ekulu Girls’ Secondary School, Aguowa Community, Enugu, Nigeria Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted involving sample of 168 students residing in Aguowa Community (Zone A&B) selected from a total School population of 950 using a stratified sampling approach. Data were collected using interview/oral examinations recorded in data sheet. Descriptive statistics were generated using SPSS version 23.0, and results were presented in table of frequency, percentages and also in standard dental indices—Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT), Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S). However, the inferential analysis was done using Chi-square statistical tool at significance level, p ≤ 0.05. Results: The participants of this study were both Junior and Senior Secondary School age groups from Aguowa community which were subdivided in Zone A&B. Analysis revealed that students from Zone A-resident of Aguowa exhibited better oral health outcomes, particularly lower DMFT scores. Although both Zones displayed signs of gingival inflammation and gingivitis, but Zone B-residents had poorer plaque control. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 8.04, p = 0.05, 95% CI) showed a statistically significant association between students’ area of residence and their oral hygiene practices. Conclusion: The results show that students in Aguowa Community—particularly in Zone B—have poorer oral health than those in Zone A. While this may reflect differences in population distribution, it also suggests disparities in access to oral health resources, education, and services, highlighting the need for more equitable interventions.