Relationship between periodontal health-related knowledge, belief, and behaviors: a structural equation modeling approach

This study provides empirical evidence on the associations between periodontal health knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors among university students. Self-efficacy and perceived benefits were key facilitators, while perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, and cues to action acted as deterrents to preventive oral hygiene behaviors. These findings support tailored interventions to enhance periodontal health literacy and promote sustained adherence to recommended oral hygiene practices.