Self-efficacy as a common variable in oral health behavior and diabetes adherence

Eur J Oral Sci. 1999 Apr;107(2):89-96. doi: 10.1046/j.0909-8836.1999.eos107203.x.

Abstract

Successful treatment of dental caries, periodontal diseases and diabetes requires persistent daily self-care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the perception of self-efficacy as a common behavioral factor determining oral health behavior, diabetes self-care, and actual health status. Cross-sectional data relating to 149 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) patients were collected from patient records, and by clinical oral examination and a quantitative questionnaire. The study population was recruited from different locations, and the participation percentage was 80%. Self-efficacy scales associated with corresponding behaviors, and a dental self-efficacy scale also correlated with dental caries. Dental self-efficacy correlated with diabetes self-efficacy, diabetes adherence, and with HbA1c. Also, logistic regression analysis revealed that dental self-efficacy was related to diabetes adherence. Further, those diabetics reporting a high frequency of dental visiting had higher diabetes self-efficacy. As a conclusion, good dental self-efficacy has a positive influence on diabetes adherence. The results suggest that the perception of self-efficacy may be a common behavioral factor determining diabetes self-care and oral health behavior.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dental Care for Chronically Ill / psychology
  • Dental Care for Chronically Ill / statistics & numerical data*
  • Dental Caries / psychology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / drug therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Compliance
  • Self Care
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Sex Factors
  • Statistics, Nonparametric
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Toothbrushing / psychology
  • Toothbrushing / statistics & numerical data*