Dietary and Hygiene-Related Knowledge Versus Reported Behaviors of Eighteen-Year-Olds: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to examine eighteen-year-olds' self-assessed knowledge about diet and hygiene, behaviors that they report, and education they receive during dental appointments.

Methods

Questionnaires distributed among 1611 subjects included questions concerning sociodemographic factors, dietary and hygiene knowledge and behaviors, and dental visits. Spearman's rank correlation and a bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted; odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were calculated (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

Respondents self-assessed their oral health knowledge; 63.1% of them considered it to be limited, and 40.7% understood the cariogenic effect of frequent snacking. Dentists and a dental team (DT) were the main source of information (55.7%). Dietary advice was recommended by 10.8% of dentists and the DT, while check-up appointments were advised by 49.2%. Parents' higher education contributed to a lower intake of cariogenic food. This effect was stronger for the mother's education. Dental appointments scheduled twice a year increased the chances of consuming healthy food (A2OR = 1.21 (1.07-2.11); p = 0.0028). Being informed increased the chances of toothbrushing ≥ 2 times (OR: 1.21, CI 1.10-1.46), using fluoridated toothpaste (OR: 1.26 CI1.05-1.55), and the frequency of appointments (A1OR: 1.56 CI 1.21-1.87; A2OR: 1.78 CI 1.54-1.91).

Conclusions

Knowledge and oral health related behaviors, as well as the involvement of the dental team in education, are inadequate. Education and instruction in the dental office has a favorable influence on oral-health-related behaviors. It is, therefore, necessary to undertake systemic solutions so that dental practitioners are more involved. Providing oral health knowledge should be the standard of care.