Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the actual state of Koreans' behavior about the use of oral hygiene devices and to collect the baseline data for developing appropriate educational objectives to improve dental health. Questionnaires were used to personally interview 1,685 residents in Korea. The obtained results were as fallows; 1. Average head size of toothbrushes was 23.2 mm in children, 28.2 mm in adults. 2. The average percent of using dentifrice containing fluoride at home was 66.7% in children, 71.4% in adults. 3. The average percent of using orthodontic toothbrushes was 50.5% in orthodontic patients, and the average percent of using interdental brushes was only 16.9% in orthodontic patients. 4. The average percent of using dental floss was 22.3% in periodontic patients, and the average percent of using interdental brushes was 16.5% in periodontic patients. 5. The patients usually use oral hygiene devices by means of dentists' suggestions and commercial advertisement. 6. Generally few people used auxiliary oral hygiene devices. To improve the oral health status effectively, more improved and correct informations and materials should be provide to dentists, dental hygienists and patients.