Development and validation of the oral management self-efficacy scale (OMSES): a cross-sectional psychometric study in adult patients with fixed orthodontic appliances.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a Self-Efficacy Scale for Oral Management for adult patients with fixed orthodontic appliances and to test its reliability and validity. METHODS: Guided by self-efficacy theory, the initial version of the scale was formed through literature review and expert consultations. A convenience sample of 502 adult patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment was surveyed. Item analysis was conducted to refine the scale, and its validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and test-retest reliability. RESULTS: The scale developed in this study comprises four dimensions: supportive behavior, oral care, dietary restrictions, and positive attitude, with a total of 28 items. The overall Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.92, indicating excellent internal consistency. The test-retest reliability was 0.92, suggesting that the scale is a stable and reliable instrument for assessing oral health self-efficacy in orthodontic patients. The scale also demonstrated good content and construct validity. CONCLUSION: The scale developed in this study demonstrates good reliability and validity and can be used to assess the oral management self-efficacy levels for adult patients with fixed orthodontic appliances.