The purpose of this study was to examine self-esteem and toothbrushing behavior in college students. The research was conducted from August 26 to September 16. 1999. Totally 1003 students consisted of whom 875 in college and 128 in university were surveyed.
Questionnaires including period, frequency, method, and time of toothbrushing and self-esteem were obtained.
The data were analysed by descriptive statistics, t-test, Pearson Correlation Coefficient and ANOVA. A significant level of statistical difference was 5 percent.
The results were summarized as follows:
1. The average score of self-esteem was 28.358±4.928.
2. The average score of toothbrushing behavior 52.63±11.12.
3. 54.8 percent of the students who were surveyed reported that they brushed their teeth after breakfast and after dinner, 42.9 percent did so twice a day, and 50.2 percent did Rolling method.
4. The Pearson Correlation Coefficient between the self esteem and toothbrushing behavior showed a positive correlation(p=.005).
5. The level of self-esteem was significantly varied with toothbrushing period (p=.000). toothbrushing frequency (p=.020), and toothbrushing time(p=.003).
From the above findings, we found out self-esteem might play a significant role in mediating changes in oral health behavior.
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