Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of calculus removal, an essential factor in periodontal disease in the elderly population. Further, the study aimed to identify the oral hygiene management matters of individuals and to use the information as primary data for preventing dental loss and improving the prevention of chronic diseases. From December 20, 2019, to January 15, 2020, the results of 171 studies on oral hygiene management and awareness of calculus removal among the elderly aged 65 or older in Busan and Gyeongnam are as follows: The elderly with good health appreciated their functional oral health status and showed significant differences (Χ2=298.26, p<.001). Many of the elderly brushing their teeth at least three times a day had a better health status and showed significant differences according to their health status (= 134.42, p <.001). Usually, older people who are in good health have a dental floss (Χ2=89.31, p<.001), and the dental floss were used more often and significantly differed depending o health status (Χ2=92.53, p<.001). The elderly's perception of tartar removal has shown that the overall average out of five points is positive at 3.48. Older female adults were more positive and showed significant differences regarding gender (t=-7.95, p<.001). Senior citizens aged 65 to 70 were more positive about dental removal than those aged 71 or older, with significant differences in age (t=6.65, p<.001). As described above, oral hygiene management for the elderly population needs to develop a periodontal disease prevention program linked to systemic diseases, considering that there are many chronic diseases.