Translating Dental Flossing Intentions into Behavior: a Longitudinal Investigation of the Mediating Effect of Planning and Self-Efficacy on Young Adults

Purpose Although poor oral hygiene practices can have serious health consequences, a large number of adults brush or floss their teeth less than the recommended time or not at all. This study examined the mediating effect of two key self-regulatory processes, self-efficacy and planning, as the mechanisms that translate dental flossing intentions into behavior.