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Use of the theoretical domains framework to further understanding of what influences application of fluoride varnish to children's teeth: a national survey of general dental practitioners in S cotland
Author(s) -
Gnich Wendy,
Bonetti Debbie,
Sherriff Andrea,
Sharma Shilpi,
Conway David I.,
Macpherson Lorna M. D.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
community dentistry and oral epidemiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.061
H-Index - 101
eISSN - 1600-0528
pISSN - 0301-5661
DOI - 10.1111/cdoe.12151
Subject(s) - medicine , guideline , fluoride varnish , population , context (archaeology) , family medicine , environmental health , paleontology , chemistry , organic chemistry , pathology , varnish , biology , coating
Objectives Despite recent improvements in the oral health of Scotland's population, the persistence of childhood dental caries underscores a need to reduce the disease burden experienced by children living in Scotland. Application of fluoride varnish ( FV ) to children's teeth provides an evidence‐based approach to achieving this goal. Despite policy, health service targets and professional recommendations supporting application, not all children receive FV in line with guidance. The objective of this study was to use the theoretical domains framework ( TDF ) to further an understanding of what may influence fluoride varnish application ( FVA ) in General Dental Practice in Scotland. Methods A postal questionnaire assessing current behaviour (frequency of FVA ) and theoretical domains ( TD s) was sent to all General Dental Practitioners ( GDP s) in Scotland. Correlations and linear regression models were used to examine the association between FVA and the TD s. Results One thousand and ninety (53.6%) eligible GDP s responded. Respondents reported applying FV more frequently to increased risk and younger children (aged 2–5 years). Higher scores in eight TD s (Knowledge, Social/professional role and identity, Beliefs about consequences, Motivation and goals, Environmental context and resources, Social influences, Emotion and Behavioural regulation) were associated with greater frequency of FVA . Four beliefs in particular appear to be driving GDP s' decision to apply FV (recognizing that FVA is a guideline recommended behaviour (Knowledge), that FVA is perceived as an important part of the GDP s' professional role (Professional role/identity), that FV is something parents want for their children (Social influences) and that FV is something GDP s really wanted to do (Emotion). Conclusions The findings of this study support the use of the TDF as a tool to understand GDP s application of FV and suggest that a multifaceted intervention, targeting dental professionals and families, and more specifically those domains and items associated with FVA may have the greatest likelihood of influencing the evidence‐based behaviour.