Factors predicting different times for brushing teeth during the day: multilevel analyses

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Oral Health

Background:

• Toothbrushing is a simple yet effective method for preventing oral diseases.
• Significant variations exist in the daily timing of toothbrushing among individuals.
• Understanding predictors of brushing after lunch versus after dinner is crucial for public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictors of toothbrushing behavior after lunch and after dinner.
• To estimate geographic variations in the timing of toothbrushing.
• To inform targeted interventions for improving oral hygiene.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual framework based on health behavior models was developed.
• Data from the 2017 Community Health Survey was utilized.
• Four-level random intercept logistic regression was employed to analyze toothbrushing behavior.

Main Results:

• Individuals under 30 were more likely to brush after lunch; those aged 40-79 were more likely to brush after dinner.
• Employment sector significantly influenced brushing habits, with service/sales and agriculture/fishing/labor/mechanics less likely to brush after lunch.
• Significant area-level variations in toothbrushing timing were observed.

Conclusions:

• Distinct patterns in factors associated with brushing after lunch versus after dinner necessitate time-specific interventions.
• Individual, household, and geographic factors play a role in toothbrushing timing.
• Tailored public health approaches are recommended to enhance oral hygiene practices throughout the day.