Resumo

FRIAS, Antônio Carlos et al. Social determinants and use of dental floss by 35-44-year-old adults. RGO, Rev. gaúch. odontol. (Online) [online]. 2012, vol.60, n.3, pp. 321-327. ISSN 1981-8637.

Objective To analyze social, economic and demographic variables associated with the use of dental floss by 35-44-year-old adults living in the district of Embu, 2008. Methods A cross-sectional type study in which an inquiry was applied and oral conditions were examined. The sample delineation was conglomeration probabilistic in two stages of random selection (censor sectors and eligible homes). The dependent variable was the use of dental floss in daily oral hygiene practices. The independent variables were social economic and demographic conditions, access to health services, habits and presence of caries and periodontal diseases. EPIINFO 06 and STATA 10 programs were used for Poisson regression analysis with adjustment for conglomeration sample. Results Of persons interviewed 52.1% stated that they did not use dental floss. In the multivariate model there was an association of non use of dental floss for men (PR=1,61 p=0,00), with those who declared having smoking habit (PR=1.24 p=0.04); with family income equal to or less than one minimum salary (PR=1.62 p=0.00); who had up to 8 years of schooling (PR=1.42 p=0.01); who did not receive information from the dentist about cleaning the teeth and gums (PR=1.27 p=0.02), and who presented severe periodontal diseases with clinical attachment loss >3.5mm (PR=1.05 p=0.00). Conclusion The research showed that the lack of dental floss use is a socially related behavior. Therefore, fair social policies is needed in order to minimize social inequalities, and ensure adult oral health educational programs.

Palavras-chave : Adult.; Dental devices; home care.; Regression analysis.; Socioeconomic factors..