Objective: To assess the periodontal health status and oral hygiene practices of 'Iruliga' tribal community residing at Ramanagar district, Karnataka.Methods: Data was collected using Community Periodontal Index (CPI). Interviewing also collected the data regarding oral hygiene practices prevalent in the tribal population. Results: Usage of oral hygiene aids showed that 2079 (79.8%) Iruligas used chew sticks. According to Community Periodontal Index, gingival bleeding was found in 4.22% (n=110); followed by calculus in 57.9%; shallow pockets (4-5 mm) in 22.0%; and deep pockets (=6 mm) in 3.67% of Iruligas. Percentage of Iruligas with loss of attachment of 4-5mm was 22.03; followed by 6-8mm loss of attachment seen in 3.88% of Iruligas; and 9-11mm loss of attachment seen in 0.04%. Conclusions: This study revealed a relatively low prevalence of periodontal disease among Iruliga tribal population and chew sticks represent an alternative instrument to the toothbrush for prevention and control of oral diseases in developing countries.