Table 3 Mean scores and frequency distributions of attitudes and behaviors regarding periodontal disease (n 222)*

Percentage

Attitudes

How much do you agree with the following statements?

I prefer drinking milk rather than soda

2.82

20.60

30.00

16.10

11.70

21.20

I try to visit a dentist even if I do not have pain in my mouth

2.80

34.50

14.30

9.40

18.80

22.40

I avoid food with added sugars

3.29

11.20

13.50

32.00

21.6

21.60

I avoid foods high in carbohydrates such as pasta, white bread, rice

3.13

11.30

21.60

30.20

17.10

19.80

If I eat added sugar products, I may increase the risk of gum disease

2.96

21.60

26.10

12.60

13.50

26.10

Behavior

How much do you agree with the following statements?

I drink water rather than soda

3.01

19.70

25.60

14.80

19.30

20.20

I usually brush two times a day

3.61

10.30

18.40

8.50

24.20

38.10

I read food labels before buying products

2.80

22.90

28.70

13.50

13.90

20.60

I go to the dentist once a year

3.56

16.20

8.50

12.10

28.70

34.10