Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior, and Self-efficacy Among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Poor oral health is recognized as a silent epidemic. Numerous individual and structural barriers are related to oral health status. Oral health promotion is essential for the general health and well-being of health professionals. Objectives: This study aimed to assess oral health-related knowledge, attitude, behavior, and self-efficacy among healthcare professionals. Methods: The present descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 404 participants from all health personnel (female = 234, male = 170) in Khuzestan, Iran, in 2021. The sample was obtained using the simple random sampling method. Data collection tools included a valid and reliable questionnaire, including items on demographics, knowledge, self-efficacy, attitude, and behavior regarding oral health. The questionnaire link was sent to employees via WhatsApp messenger. Data were analyzed using the t-test, ANOVA, and SPSS version 24. Results: The mean age of the participants was 37.38 ± 6.75. About 91% of the respondents had bachelor’s degree, and 91% were office employees. The mean score of knowledge (P < 0.001), attitude (P = 0.004), behavior (P = 0.023), and self-efficacy (P < 0.001) of women was more than men. Regular dental visits were more observed in single employees compared to married (2.38 times) and employees with diploma qualifications compared to bachelor (10 times) and PhD degrees (10 times). Conclusions: Demographic characteristics, oral health knowledge, attitude, and behavior of employees are intercorrelated with the frequency of dental clinic visits. Oral health promotion programs should be more focused on the improvement of oral health behaviors and practices, especially among males. Moreover, oral health programs should shift from focus on employees’ education to oral health practices and actions.