Relationship between dental knowledge and tooth cleaning behavior.

Abstract

A study was carried out to determine whether knowledge about dental health is related to dental behavior in a group of patients who have a positive attitude towards their dental health. Recall patients attending a clinic for periodontal care were asked to fill in a questionnaire to assess: 1) attitudes and beliefs, and 2) dental knowledge and reported behavior. They were then examined to assess their gingival health and plaque control (actual behavior). 161 patients were seen in Social Classes 1-3. Responses to the attitudinal questions indicated that approximately 80% of the patients had positive attitudes. Patients were grouped (1-5) according to Gingival Index scores (range 0.13-1.83). None of the attitudinal concepts tested were associated with the lower GI groupings. Correct knowledge about gingival disease and reported higher frequency of cleaning did not show correlation with the lower GI groupings. No significant relationship could be determined between positive attitudes and knowledge levels as predictors of gingival health.