Self-reported Oral Health Attitudes Research Articles

Self-reported oral health attitudes and behavior of dentistry students

Objectives: Dentistry students in the Philippines undergo 6 years of undergraduate dental education as their foundation to acquire the skills necessary to prevent, diagnose, and treat oral diseases, and educate their future patients. One of the learning outcomes of the entire course is to make them effective role models in the maintenance and improvement of their patient’s oral health. Throughout their undergraduate years, oral health attitudes and behaviors are formed and may be modified. This study aimed to compare 4th-year preclinical and 5th-year clinical dentistry students in terms of their oral health attitudes and behavior. Materials and Methods: The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design. Purposive sampling was done using the Hiroshima University-dental behavioral Inventory (HU-DBI) questionnaire. The questionnaire contains 20 questions, which focus on oral health attitudes and behavior, with a dichotomous response format of “Agree” or “Disagree,” giving one point in favor of good oral health attitudes and behavior for a maximum score of 12. Data was collected via an online survey using Google Forms shared in the appropriate year levels’ official social groups. Higher mean scores indicate good oral health attitudes and behavior. The HU-DBI scores of the two groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: A total of 225 dentistry students in a Philippine private dental college answered the survey, with 119 responses from the 4th year (41% response rate) and 106 responses from the 5th year (77% response rate). The overall mean score of answers favoring good oral hygiene was marginally higher in 4th-year preclinical students (M = 7.17, Standard deviation [SD] = 1.37) than in 5th-year clinical students (M = 7.15, SD = 1.24) but showed no statistical significance in their difference, z = −0.412, P = 0.681. Conclusion: There is no significant difference in the oral health attitudes and behavior between the 4th-year preclinical students and 5th-year clinical dental students. Future researchers can look into increasing the sample size and having respondents from other dental universities to provide a wider picture at a national level. Reinforcing oral health education for clinical students may be beneficial.

Evaluation of Self-Reported Oral Health Attitudes and Behavior of Dental Students in Antalya, Turkey.

Background Dental students are expected to play a critical role in the oral health education of society as future providers of dental care, and their attitudes on this subject have a possible impact on the awareness of patients regarding the importance of preventing oral diseases and improving oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the oral health attitudes and behavior of dental students. Methodology The Turkish version of the Hiroshima University Dental Behavior Inventory (HU-DBI) questionnaire regarding oral health attitudes and behaviors with an additional nine questions was distributed among 250 native Turkish-speaking dental students at the Faculty of Dentistry in Antalya, Turkey. The validity of the nine questions added to the original questionnaire was evaluated by expert opinion and a pretest method. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test were used for statistical analysis, and the statistical significance level was set at p-values <0.05. Results The mean age of the 250 students in the study was 20.96 ± 1.66 years. In total, 157 (62.8%) students were preclinical (first, second, and third year) dentistry students, and 93 (37.2%) students were clinical (fourth and fifth year) dentistry students. The mean HU-DBI score of all students was 5.95 ± 1.65, and the mean HU-DBI score of clinical students (6.42 ± 1.65) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than that of preclinical students (5.67 ± 1.59). The mean HU-DBI score of male and female students was 5.63 ± 1.55 and 6.24 ± 1.69, respectively, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The study showed significant improvement in the behavior and attitude regarding the oral health of the clinical dental students compared with the preclinical dental students. Conclusions Among dental students, clinical students and female students had generally better attitudes and behaviors about oral health self-care compared to preclinical students and male students, respectively.

Oral health attitudes and behavior among undergraduate students

IntroductionOral health behavior is based on an acquired experience and cultural traditions. University education may smooth out cultural differences in oral health practice.ObjectivesOur goal is to study self-reported oral health attitudes and behavior of university students and the cultural basis for it.MethodsWe used the English version of the Hiroshima University Dental Behavioral Inventory to carry out an online survey of 136 university students of Morocco and Russia.ResultsOver half of the students (60.3%) do not feel anxious when visiting a dentist. Most of them take care of their gums (41.2%), teeth color (49.3%) and the degree of their cleanness (38.2%). The overwhelming majority of the students brush their each tooth very thoroughly (62.5%), they regularly examine their teeth in the mirror after brushing them (90.4%). They are well aware that tooth brushing alone cannot prevent a gum disease (63.2%), and they feel concerned about the possibility of having bad breath (73.6%). At the same time, over half of the students (61.7%) put off their visit to a dentist until they have a toothache, which is a negative behavioral factor. We did not reveal any gender or cultural differences between the students of the two countries, which can be regarded as a universalization factor of oral health behavior in young people who get higher education in universities.ConclusionsThe majority of the surveyed Russian and Moroccan university students have similar patterns of oral health attitudes and behavior. This assumption needs verification on a larger sample of students.DisclosureNo significant relationships.

Self-Reported Oral Health Attitudes and Behaviors, and Gingival Status of Dental Students.

AimThe aim of this study was to assess self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviors of the Iraqi dental students and compare the variations in these attitudes and behaviors that linked to dental education level and gender.Materials and MethodsA self-administered questionnaire depended on the English version of the Hiroshima University Dental Behavioral Inventory (HU-DBI) was prepared, the questionnaire given to 198 dental students.ResultsAbout 91.4% of the dental students were worried about the teeth colour, and merely minor percentage of them (18.8%) thought it is not crucial to seek dental advice until they acquire a tooth pain; however, 26.3% of the students were disturbed because of their gum colour, and 75.3% of them examined their teeth after brushing. Besides, 72.2% of the students replied that gum disease could not be prevented by tooth brushing only, 60.1% of the students do not give visiting the dentist such concern, and 14.1% of dental students were smokers. The plaque and gingival indices were significantly higher in preclinical students than clinical students.ConclusionIraqi dental students had somewhat good oral health behavior and attitudes; however, extra concentrating is required on the anticipatory and behavioral aspects of oral self-care practices. Female dental students displayed better oral health behavior and attitudes than male colleagues on some issues.

Comparison of Oral Hygiene Attitudes, Awareness and Periodontal Parameters of Undergraduate Dental Students

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the differences in self-reported oral health attitudes and clinical measurements between dental students who enrolled in or not enrolled in periodontology course in Turkey. Material and Methods: A total of 701 students were included in the study. Students asked 26 questions including age, gender, smoking, oral hygiene habits and self-assessment measures for periodontal status. Probing depth (PD) clinical attachment level (CAL), presence of bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) measurements performed. The Chi-square test was used for categorical data and one way Anova post hoc Tukey test for ordinal level data. Results: There were no differences between grades in term of PD and CAL (p&amp;gt;0.05). Statistically significant difference was in BOP value between 1st and 5th grade (p&amp;lt;0.05). PI values of 1st grade were statistically higher than 3rd, 4th and 5th grades (p&amp;lt;0.05). GI of 1st grade was statistically higher than 4th and 5th grades (p&amp;lt;0.05). GI of 2nd grade was statistically higher than 3rd, 4th and 5th grades (p&amp;lt;0.05). Tooth brushing was not different between grades (p&amp;gt;0.05). Interdental care ratios in grades significantly differ from each other (p&amp;lt;0.05). According to students, they did not have any kind of periodontal disease with high percentages above 88%. 4th and 5th grades had periodontal treatment comparing the other grades (p&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusion: Starting to take periodontology course in dental faculties from the first year and constitute a periodontal disease prevention program will be beneficial to students in Turkey.

To Evaluate Self-Reported Oral Health Attitudes, Behavior and to Compare the Oral Health Attitudes among Students of Different Years of a Dental School in South-India

To evaluate self-reported oral health attitudes, behavior and compare the oral health attitudes among a group of dental students of different years in India. Four hundred dental students from first year to internship of the undergraduate dental course of Faculty of Dental Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Chennai were surveyed and a modified HU-DBI survey was administered to all of them. The questionnaire consists of 28 questions with yes or no responses, where the first 25 questions were related to oral health attitudes and the last three questions dealt with smoking habits of the subjects. The responses were tabulated and statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS software version 19.0. Highly significant results were obtained with respect to oral hygiene in both males and females indicative of good oral hygiene practices. The general trends for answering indicate that both males and female dental students showed a high degree of awareness and competence in all four sub sections of the questionnaire, namely oral health attitude, oral hygiene, self-reported oral health and smoking. This result was highly significant for most questions. Dental hygiene and dental hygiene practices among dental students in this South Indian population show an improvement among dental students from year to year. No significant differences were seen between male and female dental students.

Complex interrelations between self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviors, the oral health status, and oral health-related quality of life.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to develop and test a moderated mediation model that was able to describe the relationships between oral health-related attitudes and behaviors, oral health status (OHS), and oral health-related quality of life. The hypothesized relations corresponded to research questions such as “is a person’s oral health predicted by the actions that person takes in order to prevent oral health conditions?” and “do individuals with better oral health also have higher levels of oral health-related quality of life?”.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional correlational study with selected predictor variables was conducted in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, among 191 participants, enrolled in the fourth and sixth years of study at the Dentistry School of the Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Cluj-Napoca. Participants completed the Hiroshima University Dental Behavior Inventory (HUDBI) questionnaire targeting specific behavior and attitude with respect to their dental self-care, Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) short questionnaire for measuring oral health-related quality of life, and the current OHS was assessed objectively using Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth/Surfaces (DMFT) index. Statistical analyses were done using structural equation modeling software.ResultsOur research showed relevant associations between HUDBI, DMFT, and OHIP. The relationship between HUDBI and OHIP was mediated by DMFT. Furthermore, HUDBI worked as a moderator between DMFT and OHIP. Thus, our study revealed a case for moderated mediation, which is usually ignored in similar research.ConclusionThe “straightforward” causality between oral health-related behavior and the actual OHS must be considered with caution, as well as their impact on the oral health-related quality of life. Further research is needed to investigate the interaction between variables, the strength of the interrelations and the magnitude of their interactions, and the confidence that can be placed in these measurements, with respect to the general population and/or those lacking domain-specific education.

Self-Reported Oral Health Attitudes and Behavior of Dental and Medical students, Yemen.

To assess self-reported oral health attitudes and behavior among undergraduate dental and medical students, and to analyze the variations in oral health attitudes based on gender, level of education, study discipline, academic average, and type of university. A self-administered questionnaire based on the Hiroshima University-Dental Behavioural Inventory (HU-DBI) was distributed to 1269 undergraduate dental and medical students at two universities (one public and one private) in Sana'a, Yemen. Overall, the mean questionnaire score for the total sample was markedly low (4.91±1.58), with no significant difference between dental and medical students (P>0.05). Females had better oral health attitudes and behavior, especially towards visiting the dentist, tooth-brushing habits and oral hygiene practices (P<0.05). Students attending the public university had better oral health attitudes and behaviors than those attending the private university (P=0.049). On the other hand, no significant associations were observed between students' oral health attitudes/behavior and level of education and academic performance (P>0.05). Yemeni dental and medical students have shown markedly poor oral health attitude and behavior. Further studies are required to reveal possible shortcoming in these schools' education process. Dental and medical curricula should emphasize the importance of proper oral hygiene, and further participation of medical and dental students in oral hygiene seminars is highly encouraged.

The perceived concepts of oral health attitudes and behaviors of dental students from four Asian countries

Abstract Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess the self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviors of dental students from four Asian countries based on their gender and level of dental education. Subjects and methods: A structured, pre-tested, self-administered 12-item questionnaire survey was conducted among undergraduate dental students at all study levels. The sample was drawn from the Kerala University of Health Sciences; India, King Saud University, Al-Kharj University and University of Dammam; Saudi Arabia, Ajman University of Science and Technology and University of Sharjah; United Arab Emirates and University of Aden; Yemen. The questionnaire included demographic details and questions on the students’ oral health attitudes and behaviors. Results: A total of 1553 dental students (955 females, 598 males) consisting of 655 pre-clinical and 898 clinical students participated in the study. Majority of respondents (74%) reported cleaning their tongue daily and 61.8% reported that regular dental check-up should be carried out every 6 months. However, 61.9% reported that they do not use a dental floss and 72.6% reported visiting their dentist only when having dental problems. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, noticeable differences in the oral health attitudes and behaviors of the surveyed female- and clinical-dental students compared to male- and pre-clinical-dental students respectively could not be elicited. Teaching student dentists the necessary skills in attaining good oral hygiene is as imperative as imparting knowledge on various aspects of oral health.

The relationship between dental health behavior, oral hygiene and gingival status of dental students in the United Arab Emirates

The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of knowledge acquired in preventive aspects of dental education on dental students' own health attitudes, oral hygiene and gingival status in the United Arab Emirates. To compare the self-reported oral health behavior of first year dental students in the University of Sharjah with their actual oral hygiene and gingival conditions, 93 volunteers who participated in the study completed the Hiroshima University-Dental Behavioral Inventory (HU-DBI) questionnaire. Subsequently a clinical examination for their Plaque Scores (Modified Quigley Hein Plaque Index) and Gingival Bleeding Index was performed by a calibrated dentist. 29% of the participants reported bleeding gums; 83% were concerned by the color of their gums while 63% reported that it was impossible to prevent gum disease with brushing alone; and only 10% noticed some sticky white deposits on their teeth. However, approximately 92% were not in agreement that they would have false teeth when they grew older. 56% mentioned that they used dental floss regularly and 86% brushed twice daily or more. Male students had higher bleeding and plaque scores than female students. There appeared to be a significant relationship between plaque scores and HU-DBI responses; in addition to the significant relationship noted between recorded bleeding percentages and HU-DBI responses. Female students have shown better dental care behavior than male students. The dental students with better self-reported oral health attitudes were expected to have lower plaque scores but instead had moderate plaque and gingival bleeding scores. This indicates the need for more emphasis on preventive measures in oral health education.

Oral health attitudes and behaviours of final‐year dental students

The objectives of this study of final-year dental students in 10 classes (1997, 2001-2009) were to examine their self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviours and describe any trends in these attributes. Students were surveyed in final semester via an anonymous questionnaire (34 behaviour questions; eight attitude statements). Distributions, trends over time and attitude-behaviour associations were examined. Of 583 students, 459 responded (79%). All tooth-brushed with fluoride toothpaste; 80% brushed ≥2/day. Overall, 85% flossed; over time flossing behaviour increased significantly (P < 0.05), and those flossing 1-2/day increased (P < 0.005). Over time, significant decreases occurred in those taught toothbrushing (P < 0.001) and flossing (P < 0.05), and in use of mouth rinses (P < 0.05) and tooth cleansing sticks/picks (P < 0.001). Almost all (96%) had received a dental examination; 77% attended a dentist 1-3/year. Between-meal snacking was common (84%); 71% chewed gum. Although 18% had ever smoked, 5% currently smoked. Most strongly agreed they expected to keep most of their teeth for all their life (76%); their future needs for fillings would be minimal (61%); smoking could adversely affect their teeth or gums (85%); and regular dental attendance was important for their dental health (51%). Congruent attitudes and behaviours favouring oral health were widely held concerning dental attendance, flossing and smoking. Final-year dental students showed well established, favourable oral hygiene attitudes and behaviours, with evidence to suggest this knowledge was developed whilst in dental school. Despite many ceasing smoking, 5% still smoked. All dental students should receive training in motivational counselling and tobacco cessation to ensure this is included in patient care.

Self Reported Dental Health Attitudes and Behaviour of Dental Students in Turkey

The aim of this study was to compare the differences in self-reported oral health attitudes and behaviour between preclinical and clinical dental students in Turkey using Hiroshima University Dental Behavioural Inventory (HU-DBI). A Turkish version HU-DBI questionnaire with additional 7 questions, totally 27 items, was distributed among 1022 dental students. The response rate was 75% (486 preclinical and 278 clinical students). Significantly higher (P=0.000) percentage of the preclinical students, compared to clinical students, worry about colour of their teeth, are bothered by the colour of their gums, put off going to the dentist until they have a toothache; think that their teeth are getting worse despite their daily brushing, it is impossible to prevent gum disease with tooth brushing alone, and they cannot help having false teeth when they are old. Moreover, the preclinical students more frequently agree on that their gums tend to bleed when they brush their teeth, they use a toothbrush which has hard bristles, and they don't feel they've brushed well unless with strong strokes (P=0.000). However, a higher proportion of clinical students compared to preclinical students brush each of their teeth carefully, think that they can clean their teeth without using toothpaste, have had their dentist tell them that they brush very well (P=0.000). The HU-DBI score of clinical students (7.47±1.86) was significantly (P=0.000) higher than preclinical students (6.00±1.86). Dental students should have a comprehensive program, including their self-care regimes, starting from their first year of education.

Oral Health Attitudes and Behavior among a Group of Dental Students in Bangalore, India

To evaluate self-reported oral health attitudes and behavior among a group of dental students in Bangalore, India and to compare the oral health attitudes of students of different years of dental school. A self-administered questionnaire based on a modified version of the Hiroshima University Dental Behavior Inventory (HU-DBI) was administered to 250 dental students. Significant differences (P<.05) were observed among students of different years in the degree of worrying about the color of the teeth, not having been to the dentist before and brushing each tooth carefully. Strongly significant differences (P<.001) were observed among students of different years in brushing the teeth twice daily, being satisfied with the appearance of the teeth, cleaning the teeth well without toothpaste, visiting dentist only when having a toothache, taking too much time to brush their teeth, worrying about having bad breath and using mouth rinse on a regular basis. Among dental students, the overall knowledge of oral health was good, even though there were deficits in knowledge in a few areas. The oral health attitudes and behavior of dental students improved with increasing levels of education.

Oral disease beliefs, behaviors, and health status of Korean-Americans.

Previous research with other ethnic minorities has shown that culture and age cohort, as well as language and economic limitations, act as barriers to obtaining dental care and maintaining good oral health. This study compared self-reported oral health attitudes, self-efficacy, and dental practices of 20 younger and 23 elderly Korean-Americans. Oral assessments were also conducted to determine plaque and gingival status, and root and coronal caries. Significant differences emerged in health self-efficacy (P less than .01) and preventive health orientation (P less than .002). Elderly had fewer teeth (P less than .0001), more decayed and filled root surfaces (P less than .05 and P less than .004, respectively), and more decayed and filled coronal surfaces (P less than .001 and P less than .03). Both groups showed higher levels of distal and mesial plaque than occlusal and cervical plaque; however, the elderly had higher rates of both (P less than .0001). Gingival status was also worse for the elderly, on distal and mesial (P less than .01), facial (P less than .01), and lingual (P less than .01) surfaces. These differences are striking, since the elderly reported visiting the dentist more recently (P less than .0001); but most of these visits were for prosthodontic and emergency care. Better preventive dental care and education are necessary for elderly immigrants who have not been exposed to preventive dentistry in their home countries.