Adults (« = 319) in the Detroit, Michigan
tri-county area were asked how frequently they performed the 3 preventive
behaviors. Levels of plaque, gingivitis, calculus, and periodontal attachment were
then assessed during in-home dental examinations. There were no statistically
significant differences in these health measures between those with acceptable
and unacceptable brushing behavior. About 20% of the subjects reported acceptable
flossing behavior, and these individuals had significantly less plaque and
calculus than other participants. Over 3/4 of subjects reported having a dental
checkup at least 1 x a year, and these persons were found to have significantly
less plaque, gingivitis, and calculus compared to less frequent attenders. Acceptable
brushing behavior was not associated with any particular demographic or socioeconomic
characteristic, while differences in acceptable flossing behavior were
found among age groups. Frequencies of yeariy dental checkups varied significantly
within every demographic and socioeconomic characteristic.