An Assessment of Oral Health Status among Lead Battery Factory Workers in Ghaziabad UP a Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Industrial workers are a well-defined group of a population. They have frequent shifts,
low socio-economic status and neglected oral hygiene as they are at risk for health and dental problems.
Industrial revolution has provided a lot of scope in employment worldwide for many which has improved
the standard of living of many individuals. Health at workplace is considered essential now a days in various
countries due to this rapid economic growth and industrial progress. In various industries like acid battery
industry, chemical and textile industry, are exposed to hazardous substances and radiations. Studies have
also reported a positive association between battery exposures to strong acids and periodontal pockets or
gingival bleeding among exposed workers. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to assess the
oral health status of lead battery factory workers in Ghaziabad Uttar Pradesh. Material and Method: The
“World Health Organization (WHO) oral health assessment form -2013” was used to record the clinical
findings.25 For the diagnosis of dental caries, WHO type III examination was carried out using mouth
mirrors and explorers while using adequate illumination. The components of the form used were - General
information, Dentition status (crown, root), periodontal status, loss of attachment, dental erosion, and oral
mucosal lesions. Results: The mean DMFT scores were (5.72 3.17) females had more number of teeth with
gingival bleeding compared to males. It was also found 72.3% of battery factory workers had pocket depth
more than 6mm. 51.5% workers in the study had LOA of score 3 (as per WHO proforma) Mean number of
teeth affected with erosion was more in males (4.76 4.02)

Conclusion: Oral health statuses of factory workers are highly affected due to lead acid used in industries.