Translation into Portuguese and validation of an adolescent oral health questionnaire on habits, knowledge and attitudes | Tradução e validação para Português de um questionário de hábitos, conhecimentos e atitudes de saúde oral dos adolescentes

Abstract

Objective: This paper presents the translation and validation process of a questionnaire drawn up in 2001 by Chiva Garcia et al at the Universidad de Murcia. This questionnaire is divided into five sections: fear of dentists; oral hygiene and appearance; concern with health; prevention of dental problems, and general health. Methods: The questionnaire translation used the translate/back-translate method, validated through a feasibility analysis of each section using Cronbach's alpha coefficient for internal consistency and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olk in test for the construct. As part of this validation process, the questionnaire was completed by 130 adolescents at the Miguel Torga secondary school, Monte Abraão, Queluz, Portugal. Results: The questionnaire proved appropriate for achieving its purpose, posting high statistical values for internal consistency and construct validation in the various sections. Conclusion: The values obtained by the Portuguese translation of the questionnaire are very similar to those of the original version, thus constituting a valuable tool for exploring habits, knowledge and attitudes towards oral health among Portuguese-speaking adolescents.