Self-efficacy as a common variable in oral health behavior and diabetes adherence

Successful treatment of dental caries, periodontal diseases and diabetes re quires persistent daily self-care. The aim of this study was to evaluate th e perception of self-efficacy as a common behavioral factor determining ora l health behavior, diabetes self-care, and actual health status. Cross-sect ional data relating to 149 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) patie nts were collected from patient records, and by clinical oral examination a nd a quantitative questionnaire. The study population was recruited from di fferent locations, and the participation percentage was 80%. Self-efficacy scales associated with corresponding behaviors, and a dental self-efficacy scale also correlated with dental caries. Dental self-efficacy correlated w ith diabetes self-efficacy, diabetes adherence, and with HbA1(c). Also, log istic regression analysis revealed that dental self-efficacy was related to diabetes adherence. Further, those diabetics reporting a high frequency of dental visiting had higher diabetes self-efficacy. As a conclusion, good d ental self-efficacy has a positive influence on diabetes adherence. The res ults suggest that the perception of self-efficacy may be a common behaviora l factor determining diabetes self-care and oral health behavior.