Oral Health-Related Factors based on Health Belief Model in 10th to 12th-Grade Students in Kashan

Aims: Oral problems, particularly dental caries, are among prevalent health problems across the world that normally initiate in adolescence. This study aimed to determine oral health-related factors based on the health belief model among 10th to 12th-grade students in Kashan. Instrument & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 180 10th to 12th-grade students living in Kashan City, Iran, in 2017-18. Using multistage sampling, students were randomly selected from schools. Then, students completed a valid and reliable researcher-made questionnaire. Utilizing independent t-test, logistic regression, ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation coefficient, the collected data were analyzed by SPSS 20. Findings: 50.6% of the participants brushed teeth at least once a day, 20% used dental floss once a day, and 8.3% referred to the dentist once every six months. There was a significant positive correlation between perceived self-efficacy and oral health behaviors (r=0.35; p<0.001). In addition, perceived barriers had a significant negative relationship with oral health behaviors (r=-0.30; p<0.001). However, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, and perceived benefits had no significant correlation with oral health behaviors (p>0.05). Conclusion: The health belief model has the necessary effectiveness in promoting oral health behaviors. It is suggested to utilize appropriate plans and educational interventions based on behavioral models and theories to increase self-efficacy and remove barriers to toothbrushing behavior, utilization of dental floss, and improvement of oral health in students.