RESUMO
Objective To investigate the current status and influencing factors of self-efficacy for oral self-care in patients with chronic periodontitis. Methods A total of 357 patients with chronic periodontitis were investigated with the self-designed questionnaire, Self-Efficacy Scale for Self-care (SESS), Dental Fear Scale(DFS) and Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire(MCMQ). Results The total score of SESS was(58.66±7.27)points,which was at the medium level.In the scores of each dimension, self-efficacy for dietary habits was the highest,(20.42 ± 2.88)points,and self-efficacy for brushing of the teeth was the lowest,(18.37 ± 2.94)points.Multiple linear regression analysis showed that age,dental fear and medical coping mode were influencing factors of self-efficacy for oral self-care,which explained 53.6% of the variance. Conclusions Medical staff should pay more attention to the patients who are in low level of self-efficacy for self-care.Oriented by each dimension and influencing factors,specific psychological intervention should be given to reduce dental fear,improve medical coping style,enhance the level of self-efficacy for oral self-care and promote oral self-care behaviors and somatopsychic health.
RESUMO
Aims and objectives : The present study was carried out to assess the oral hygiene practices and habits among practicing general dentists. Materials and Methods : The study was carried out in four dental schools with the help of a self administered questionnaire. The questionnaire covered dentists' oral self care, smoking habits, professional reading and oral health concepts. A total of 700 dentists responded, of which 457 were males. Recommended oral self care (ROSC) included tooth brushing one per day, eating sugary snacks daily or rarely and regularly using fluoride tooth paste. Results : The data obtained was then subjected to statistical analyses and evaluated using chi-square tests and logistic regressions.It was found that 55.9% of all respondents brushed twice a day, 59.4% consumed sugar containing snacks less than once daily and 55.1% of them used fluoride containing paste regularly while brushing. 81.1% of the 700 dentists never used tobacco products. In all, 19.6% 0f the practicing general dentists followed recommended oral self care. Conclusion : From the present study, it can be concluded that only 19.6% of south Indian dentists follow recommended oral self care and hence awareness programs and continuous dental education programs among dentists is essential to improve the present scenario and to increase the number of dental professionals following ROSC.