Table 1 The Hiroshima University-Dental behavioural inventory (HU-DBI) 20 items survey^15,16.

1

I do not worry much about visiting the dentist.

2

My gum tends to bleed when I brush my teeth. (D)

3

I worry about the colour of my teeth.

4

I have noticed some white sticky deposits on my teeth. (A)

5

I use a child sized toothbrush.

6

I think that I cannot help having false teeth when I am old. (D)

7

I am bothered by the colour of my gum.

8

I think my teeth are getting worse despite my daily brushing. (D)

9

I brush each of my teeth carefully. (A)

10

I have never been taught professionally how to brush. (D)

11

I think I can clean my teeth well without using toothpaste. (A)

12

I often check my teeth in a mirror after brushing. (A)

13

I worry about having bad breath.

14

It is impossible to prevent gum disease with tooth brushing alone. (D)

15

I put off going to dentist until I have a toothache. (D)

16

I have used a dye to see how clean my teeth are. (A)

17

I use a toothbrush which has hard bristles.

18

I do not feel I have brushed well unless I brush with hard strokes.

19

I feel I sometimes take too much time to brush my teeth. (A)

20

I have had my dentist tell me that I brush very well