Adam A Rogers, Anne E M Halvari, Anne-Kristin Solbakk, Jan-Are K Johnsen
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Increased support for oral health during young adulthood is needed to address trends in oral disease over the life course. Executive functioning (EF) may play a role in supporting oral health but has received little attention. EF represents the capacity to control cognitive information, feelings and behaviour. The current study aimed to explore the association between EF and oral health among young adults and investigate potential mediators.
Methods: Young adults aged 18-30 years were recruited from five universities within Norway to take part in a cross-sectional digital survey. Participants self-reported EF, toothbrushing, flossing, dental fear and anxiety (DFA), and provided ratings on two measures of oral health: self-rated oral health (SROH) and self-reported oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Separate analyses were conducted for each outcome. Linear regression was used to test the association between EF and oral health, and whether toothbrushing, flossing, or DFA mediated this effect.
Results: Data from 344 participants were analysed. Average SROH was quite good (M = 4.13), several participants (60.5%) reported some impact on OHRQoL. In the SROH model, EF difficulties directly predicted oral health (β = -0.26), and DFA mediated the relationship (ab = -0.03, p < 0.05). In the OHRQoL model, EF difficulties again predicted performances impacted (β = 0.27), and DFA mediated the relationship (ab = 0.04, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: EF is related to oral health outcomes among young adults and the relationship is mediated by DFA. Studies are encouraged to continue exploring these relationships, with longitudinal studies needed to provide more insight into the potential role of EF as a protective factor for the development of DFA and oral health problems.
期刊介绍：
The aim of Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology is to serve as a forum for scientifically based information in community dentistry, with the intention of continually expanding the knowledge base in the field. The scope is therefore broad, ranging from original studies in epidemiology, behavioral sciences related to dentistry, and health services research through to methodological reports in program planning, implementation and evaluation. Reports dealing with people of all age groups are welcome.
The journal encourages manuscripts which present methodologically detailed scientific research findings from original data collection or analysis of existing databases. Preference is given to new findings. Confirmations of previous findings can be of value, but the journal seeks to avoid needless repetition. It also encourages thoughtful, provocative commentaries on subjects ranging from research methods to public policies. Purely descriptive reports are not encouraged, nor are behavioral science reports with only marginal application to dentistry.
The journal is published bimonthly.
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