Association Between Frequency of Toothbrushing and Work-Related Factors in the Japanese Population

Work-related factors have been associated with behavioural risk factors, but few studies have explored the association between work-related factors and toothbrushing. This study assessed the association between work-related factors and frequency of toothbrushing.

In this cross-sectional study, an internet survey was conducted from November 24-29, 2021 in Japan. Full- and part-time workers aged 20-69 years were selected from those registered with an online research company and included as participants. Participants were instructed to complete a questionnaire that surveyed their work-related factors and oral health.

Data from 1808 participants (896 male, 912 female) were analysed. Among them, 1463 (80.9%) participants brushed their teeth ≥ 2 times per day. Full-time employees, daytime workers, and workers who were satisfied with their jobs were more likely to brush their teeth ≥ 2 times per day. Among participants with work-related stress, those with job satisfaction were more likely to brush their teeth ≥ 2 times per day than those without (odds ratio: 1.66; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-2.58). This association was not observed among participants with no work-related stress.

In this study, job satisfaction was associated with more frequent toothbrushing among Japanese workers, particularly those experiencing work-related stress. Especially for stressed workers, strategies to reduce work-related stress and improve job satisfaction may enhance oral health behaviours.