Assessment of Professional Dental Care Utilisation Among Rural Dwellers in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Oral health is essential for overall health and quality of life. Yet, utilisation of professional dental services remains low in many rural communities in developing countries. This study assessed knowledge and determinants of dental care utilisation among rural residents of Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adults selected using multistage sampling. The sample size was calculated using the Cochran formula. Of the 326 distributed questionnaires, 300 were completed, yielding a 92.0% response rate. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha ≥ 0.7). Descriptive statistics summarised the variables, and Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with dental care utilisation. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Over half of respondents (52.6%) demonstrated good knowledge of oral health, and 89.0% were aware of dental services. However, only 15.7% had utilized professional dental care in the past year, mostly for pain or gum problems, while preventive visits were rare. Multivariate analysis showed that educational level, monthly income, and positive attitude towards dental care significantly predicted utilization (p < 0.001). Key barriers included preference for traditional remedies, fear of dental procedures, perceived lack of need, and cost. Conclusion: Despite high awareness, utilization of dental services in Ikwerre LGA remains low. Socio-economic status and attitudes, rather than knowledge alone, largely influence dental care-seeking behaviour. Interventions targeting oral health education, affordability, and attitude change are critical to improving dental service uptake in rural communities.