Munnhelsevaner og bruk av snus blant videregående avgangselever i Nordland

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of our study was to get an overview of oral hygiene habits and the use of snus among high school graduates in Nordland county, and to investigate some background factors that may be associated with these habits. We also wanted to gain insight in the students’ motivation for maintaining good oral health, and to explore the influence of different factors around the use of snus. Material and method: The material was collected through an anonymous questionnaire. Our analysis is based on 376 respondents. The data is analysed in the statistical program SPSS. Results and conclusion: High school graduates who live with their parents brush their teeth more often that those who have moved out. In general, very few floss their teeth regardless of their living situation, sex or snus habits. Among those who have moved away from home there were more snus users than among those who still live with their parents. The size of the attending high school (number of students) did not seem to be an essential factor for the use of snus. Our study revealed that many dentists and dental hygienists have not offered help to quit using snus, even though they were aware of the students’ habits.