Abstract
BACKGROUND: Mouthwash, one of the important oral hygiene measures, is not regularly used by a majority of the population. Understanding their reasons can lead to research in developing mouthwashes with greater tolerance and compliance. The present survey is designed to assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of mouthwash use among adult individuals in a suburban setting. METHODOLOGY: A validated online KAP questionnaire was administered to adult volunteers of Chennai city, India, from 3 January to 3 February 2025. RESULTS: 265 respondents gave valid responses. 138 (52%) were male and 127 (48%) were female, with a mean age of 27.8 years. 111 (41.9%) respondents use a mouthwash, and 154 are non-users (58.1%). 37% of users reported a single daily frequency of mouthwashing. A majority (54%) reported a mouthwashing time between 10 and 30 s. 28% report waiting for 15 min before consuming food/liquids. 94% are aware that mouthwashing alone is not enough for oral health. More than half (55%) are aware that mouthwashes can have side effects. The mean KAP scores were 19.06, 18.05, and 21.80, respectively. KAP correlated strongly among the respondents (P < 0.01). Regression analysis of scores revealed socio-demographic differences. CONCLUSION: The obtained scores revealed less than adequate KAP of mouthwash use in the population. This critical gap should be bridged by effective public health education and awareness programs. The data regarding the non-adherence and side effects of mouthwash can lead to further research in developing better products.