Snus intervention among dental personnel in Norway

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of our study was to investigate dentists' and dental hygienists' practices concerning snus cessation in the dental clinics, and to map if they have enough knowledge about snus. We also wanted to see if there are differences between dentists and dental hygienists in cessation activity and successfulness, and what methods are used for intervention.

Methods: A questionnaire was published on two different private groups on Facebook; "Oss tannleger i mellom" and "Oss tannpleiere i mellom". Altogether 354 dental professionals replied (244 dentists and 110 dental hygienists).

Results: Majority of both professions agreed that it is the responsibility of the dental personnel to give information and to practice snus intervention. The hygienists reported to practice snus cessation more frequently than the dentists. Cessation was practiced more often in the public sector than in the private sector. More hygienists than dentists reported to have high knowledge concerning snus, and those who considered their knowledge to be high were also the ones who practiced snus cessation most often. Snus intervention success seemed to correspond with knowledge level and how often snus intervention was performed. About two third of the dentists and half of the hygienists thought that there was not enough information available about snus.

Conclusions: The results from our study showed that there was a great variety in knowledge level and intervention activity among dental personnel. There is room for improvement, and clearer guidelines are needed. We should take more advantage of the unique arena of the dental clinics for practicing snus cessation.

Keywords: Snus, cessation, dentist, dental hygienist, Norway