Assessment of correlation of sense of coherence with oral health behaviours in general population in Western Maharashtra

Abstract

Introduction: Sense of Coherence (SOC) is the main constituent of the Salutogenic theory. It evaluates the individual’s capability to use existing resources in order to overcome difficulties and cope with life stressors to perform healthy behaviour and stay well. Materials and Methods:A questionnaire study was conducted among general population to assess correlation between SOC and oral health behaviours. The structured, self-administered, close-ended questionnaire was designed to collect the data which consists of three parts and comprised of 26 questions related to SOC and oral health behaviours. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were calculated. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Results: Out of 270 study participants, the mean SOC was found about 53.56. Around 82% of the population used toothbrush and toothpaste as the oral hygiene method. Approximately 62% of the population rinsed their mouth after every meal and 54.8% of the population used a combination of horizontal, vertical and circular movements to brush their teeth. Conclusion: The high level of SOC was associated with good oral health behaviours such as frequency of brushing, time of brushing, use of oral hygiene aids, etc. Hence, the SOC can be a determinant of oral health-related behaviours.