Socioeconomic factors related to tooth brushing behavior among adults in Korea: analysis with 2019 Community Health Survey data

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the socioeconomic factors related to tooth brushing behavior among adults in Korea. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the Korea Community Health Survey (KCHS) in 2019. Respondents aged 19 years and older (n=299,099) comprised the study sample. The dependent variable was tooth brushing behavior, whereas the independent variables were demographic and socioeconomic factors. The data were processed using chi-squared test, independent t-test, ANOVA, and adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis were performed. Statistical analysis was performed using the STATA 17.0 program, with significance set at the 5% level. Results: About half (55%) of the respondents brushed their teeth at least twice a day. The findings also revealed significant differences according to socioeconomic status (P<.01). Those who brushed their teeth less than twice a day had the following characteristics: men, aged 45 years or older, low income, working outside, less educated, without a spouse, and living in rural areas. Adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the area of residence contributed to tooth brushing behavior. Conclusions: The area of residence, as well as socioeconomic status, should be considered in oral health education and intervention strategies.

Correlation between Concerns about the Infection of Economic Workers due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Practice of Tooth Brushing after Lunch

“…For occupational classifications, professionals, office workers, and career soldiers showed higher practicing rates than managers, whereas machine operators, agricultural and fishery sector workers, and daily laborers showed lower practicing rates. In the previous studies on community people based on a community health survey conducted in 2019, men, older people, workers in the agricultural and fishery sectors, and those with lower educational attainment had lower practicing rates 21) . The reason for the lower practicing rate in men may have various causes, one of which may be due to lower concern for oral health 22) .…”