A strong sense of coherence promotes regular dental attendance in adults

OBJECTIVE: 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. BASIC RESEARCH DESIGN: 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. PARTICIPANTS: The sample for this study consisted of 4,263, 30- to 64-year-old dentate, adults. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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.