Motivation for dental hygiene in adolescents.

The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between some 'lifestyle' factors and motivation for toothbrushing in young people. Data from a questionnaire survey of 7770 children aged 14-15 years were analysed to obtain information about their main reason for toothbrushing, their toothbrushing frequency, smoking behaviour and social efficacy. In those who brushed their teeth less frequently, toothbrushing was performed more for cosmetic reasons, that is, having teeth that look and feel good and breath that smells fresh, in contrast to the avoidance of toothache and false teeth, which are health reasons. The more socially advantaged individuals were more inclined to brush their teeth to avoid toothache, and less for the sake of good appearance, compared with the more disadvantaged. Motivation for toothbrushing varied significantly with smoking behaviour, committed smokers were more inclined to brush for cosmetic reasons whereas those who had never smoked were more concerned to avoid dental problems. Similarly, those who had a current friend of opposite sex, and in males, those expressing confidence when meeting members of the opposite sex, brushed more for cosmetic reasons. In conclusion, different people perform their dental hygiene for quite different reasons. These findings need to be taken into account when instructing patients in personal dental care and formulating dental health messages.