(Walsh et
a!. 1989). However, there is little evidence
that links brushing frequency
with improved oral health, particularly
in natural, uncontrolled settings (Gift
1985).
Flossing is practiced by fewer individuals
but frequency has slowly increased
over the years with women and the educated
being more frequent flossers
(Ronis et al, 1992). Flossing has been
shown to reduce gingival inflammation
(Graves et a], 1989), but the added benefits
of toothbrushing and flossing over
toothbrushing alone are uncertain
(Frandsen 1985).
Demographic factors such as age,
gender, and race, and socioeconomic
status are known to affect the frequency
of dental visits (Burt & Eklund 1992),
Of 3 preventive behaviors (regular dental
visits,