# Lifestyle, health behavior, and oral health differences among dentistry, nutrition, and fine arts university students

## TL;DR

This study compares lifestyle and oral health habits among university students in Dentistry, Nutrition, and Fine Arts, finding significant differences that could inform health promotion strategies.

## Contribution

The study identifies distinct health behavior patterns across different academic disciplines, suggesting tailored interventions may be needed.

## Key findings

- Nutrition students showed the healthiest profiles with higher exercise and fruit/vegetable intake.
- Dentistry students reported better self-perceived oral health and brushing frequency.
- Fine Arts students exhibited higher sedentary behavior and poorer dietary and oral hygiene habits.

## Abstract

University students' lifestyle habits influence their general and oral health in the medium and long term. This study compared physical activity, dietary habits, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and oral hygiene practices among students of Dentistry, Nutrition, and Fine Arts, aiming to identify differences that may guide future preventive interventions.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between June and July 2025 at the ADEMA University School (Palma de Mallorca, Spain). The final sample included 165 students (115 Dentistry, 32 Nutrition, and 18 Fine Arts) aged 18–30 years. A validated self-administered questionnaire, adapted from World Health Organization instruments and the ENALIA study, was used to collect sociodemographic variables, physical activity level, screen time, dietary habits, tobacco and alcohol use, and oral hygiene practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; χ2 and ANOVA tests were applied according to variable type, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The study was approved by the Balearic Islands Research Ethics Committee (IB 5691/24 PI).

Nutrition students exhibited the healthiest profiles: 60% reported ≥2–3 h/week of exercise and higher daily fruit and vegetable intake. Dentistry students showed the best self-perceived oral health and the greatest brushing frequency. Fine Arts students exhibited higher sedentary behavior and poorer dietary and oral hygiene habits. Significant differences among degree programs were found in physical activity, diet, and oral health variables (p < 0.05).

Relevant differences in lifestyle and health behaviors were observed according to academic degree. University education appears to influence the adoption of healthy habits; therefore, health promotion programs integrating oral health as an essential component of overall well-being are recommended.