A strong sense of coherence promotes regular dental attendance in adults

To investigate the relationship between the sense of coherence (SOC) and dental attendance pattern. It was hypothesised that the subjects with a stronger SOC have a more regular dental attendance.

In the nationally representative sample including 8,028 persons aged 30, or more, 88% were surveyed. The questionnaire and home interview included information about socio-economic and demographic factors, behavioural and attitudinal variables, such as oral health behaviours (i.e. dental attendance pattern), and the SOC scale (12-item). Chi-square test, unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were used in the data analysis.

The sample for this study consisted of 4,263, 30- to 64-year-old dentate, adults.

Regular dental attendance was more common among those with a stronger SOC. Gender, education, family income and marital status, but not age, were related with dental attendance. The gender- and age-adjusted associations between the SOC and dental attendance pattern were found to be significantly stronger among those having high-, or middle level of education compared with those having a low education level.

A stronger SOC is associated with regular dental attendance. This raises the possibility of achieving long-term positive effects on dental attendance in adulthood, if the SOC could be strengthened during adolescence.