Study of Knowledge and Attitude Toward Tooth Extraction as Dental Treatment Among Adults in Kebbi State

The over-reliance on tooth extraction as the primary response to dental problems is a well-documented challenge in rural northern Nigeria, and understanding underlying attitudes helps to redirect communities toward conservative dental care. This study examined the knowledge and attitudes toward tooth extraction among adults in Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Zuru Local Government Areas, Kebbi State, North West Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 360 adults using multistage sampling. A structured questionnaire assessed beliefs about dental disease, previous tooth extraction experience, reasons for tooth loss, and willingness to undergo restorative treatment if available and affordable. Results showed that 67.8 percent of respondents had at least one tooth extracted in their lifetime, predominantly due to pain rather than therapeutic advice. Tooth extraction was considered the most appropriate treatment for severe toothache by 72.4 percent. Knowledge that teeth can be saved through root canal treatment was absent in 84.2 percent of participants. Willingness to pay for restorative treatment was low at 28.9 percent. Educational level was the strongest positive predictor of willingness to seek restorative rather than extractive treatment. Traditional healers had been consulted for dental complaints by 43.1 percent. The study concludes that extraction is the default dental treatment preference in this population, driven by limited knowledge and cost barriers. Recommendations include community oral health literacy campaigns, training of community health workers in dental referral pathways, and mobile dental clinics offering affordable restorative services in Kebbi State.

Keywords: tooth extraction, dental attitudes, knowledge, rural adults, Kebbi State