Behavior and attitude toward oral health care in implant wearers

Abstract

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to investigate the oral health education and oral health care in the implant wearers. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was conducted by 253 patients in 14 different dental hospitals and clinics in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do from July 1 to September 30, 2012. The instrument was adapted from Kang and Lee, Yu and Shim, and Ko and Jang on the basis of the previous study. The questionnaire consisted of 12 questions including general characteristics of the subjects(4 questions), oral health education(3 questions), behavior and attitude of tooth brushing(3 questions), and use of auxiliary supplies(2 questions). Results: 1. 38.3% of the patients received the dental care education for the first time. The most common education method was demonstration by dental hygienists(28.9%). 26.2% of the patients wanted to know the right toothbrushing method. 2. The best toothbrushing methods were rolling method(28.9%) and Leonard's method(28.9%). 19.4% of the patients changed the toothbrushing method after education. 22.5 percent brushed their natural teeth and implant teeth by a different maneuver. 3. The interdental brush was the most commonly used product(35.8%) and most of the patients the interdental brush once a day(36.6%). 4. There was a significant difference between the frequency of toothbrushing and method(p<0.05). 5. There was a significant difference between the separate brushing of implant and natural teeth by the frequency of toothbrushing and method of education(p<0.05). 6. Use of interdental brush had an influenced on education method(p<0.05). Conclusions: Regular dental checkup and use of interdental brush can improve the oral care for the implant wearers. Regular use of interdental brush can prolong the life span of implant tooth and keep the patients' teeth in good condition.