Associations between selected demographic parameters and dental status: Potential implications for orodental rehabilitation

Abstract

Purpose. This pilot study evaluated potential relationships between dental status and various sociodemographic variables in the age group segment of the United States population at greatest risk for the disruption of dental function due to treatment of an oral cavity cancer. Methods. The Dental Health Supplement of the 1989 National Health Interview Survey was used to evaluate the self-reported status of natural dentition and prior dental rehabilitation among the population of persons 45 years or older. Results. Sociodemographic variables, which showed a significant association with status of natural dentition, were level of income and occupation at lower income levels ( p < 0.05). Increased levels of prior dental rehabilitation were significantly associated with lower age, female gender, increased level of income, and occupation ( p < 0.05). Occupations that required social interaction had the highest levels of both status of natural dentition and prior dental rehabilitation ( p < 0.05). Conclusions. Overall dental status after treatment of oral cancer may be related to the occupational status of many persons. Sociodemographic factors that influence the dental rehabilitation needs of individual patients after treatment of an oral cancer should be considered in policy decisions affecting accessibility of dental rehabilitative care. A follow-up, survey study that would further define the identified relationships between a person’s demographic status and dental rehabilitation needs is recommended. (J Prosthet Dent 1998;79:526-31.)