Understanding health behavior and perceptions.

Oral health and general health status depend on a dynamic interplay of many factors, including the individual's personal characteristics, behaviors, and perceptions. There are differences and disparities among different racial and ethnic groups in terms of oral health status, and in the physical, socioeconomic, cultural, and political environment. Furthermore, response to the environment may vary among individuals and populations. Access to care and patient-provider interactions are key issues to consider. This article presents a conceptual model of the variable influences on behaviors and perceptions that determine oral health status in minority and other populations.