Problematic Internet Usage and its Impact on Oral Health Related Quality of Life Among Undergraduate Dental Students, Khammam, Telangana

Abstract

Background: Internet usage and its addiction has grown rapidly across the globe and it is associated with loss of control of the users. Problematic internet use is addictive behavior and may include excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges, or behaviors regarding computer use and internet access that lead to impairment or distress. (https://www.education.vic.gov.au). Now-a-days, problematic Internet usage (PIU) has led to various psychosocial problems with an impact on oral diseases due to neglect of healthy behavior. So, this study aims to determine the association between problematic internet usage and oral health – related quality of life (OHRQoL) among undergraduate dental students in Khammam. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 undergraduate dental students in Khammam, Telangana. Which includes a pre-tested questionnaire on Problematic internet usage (PIU) and Oral health impact profile-14(OHIP) was given to the participants. Results: In present study, interns are facing more problematic internet usage (PIU) with 75.4% which is associated with poor oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) with statistically significant value. majority of the males were facing more problematic internet usage with 71.4% when compared to females with 62.4%. Conclusion: This study concludes that there is a direct association between problematic internet use (PIU) and oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL). So, the appropriate preventive and interventional strategies need to be developed to encourage rational use of the Internet to protect the user’s health.