Abstract
ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe and analyze oral health, oral health behaviors, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in relation to the level of caries disease among caries-active young adults.Material and methodsThis study presents data from a sample of young adults (n = 135) with active caries disease who were enrolled in a clinical, randomized controlled trial. The independent variables of sociodemographics, oral health (gingivitis, plaque), oral health behaviors (such as toothbrushing, dental attendance, sugar-containing sweets and drinks), dental anxiety, self-rated oral health, and OHRQoL were collected. Multinomial logistic regression was used to simultaneously evaluate the associations between the independent variables and caries severity.ResultsMultinominal logistic regression showed that poor OHRQoL and gingivitis were associated with caries severity in a gradient fashion in accordance with caries disease activity. Also, irregular dental care and frequent consumption of sugary soda were significantly associated with very high caries severity.ConclusionsThe risk factors related to caries severity among young adults were poor OHRQoL, gingivitis, consumption of sugary soda and irregular dental care attendance, indicating the need for a combination of different interventions specifically health behavior change. Furthermore, these findings may contribute to identifying high caries-risk individuals.
Highlights
Dental caries in permanent dentition is one of the world’s most common diseases, affecting individuals throughout their lifetime.[1]
There are subgroups in populations that are affected by a high caries prevalence, which demonstrates the need for risk factor analysis as well as preventive and dental care interventions
MATERIAL AND METHODS Design This study presents baseline data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) (TRN ISRCTN15009620) that evaluated a psychological oral health intervention providing two cognitive behavior therapy sessions at dental clinics.[22]
Summary
Dental caries in permanent dentition is one of the world’s most common diseases, affecting individuals throughout their lifetime.[1] It may cause pain, discomfort, and anxiety and, if left untreated, lead to the spread of infection and tooth loss. This condition may affect an individual’s ability to eat and speak properly but may result in lost work and school hours and affect the individual’s overall wellbeing.[2] Dental caries is a multifactorial disease caused by both biological and behavioral factors, some of which (e.g., diet) are shared with other noncommunicable diseases (diabetes, heart disease, cancer).[1]. There are subgroups in populations that are affected by a high caries prevalence, which demonstrates the need for risk factor analysis as well as preventive and dental care interventions
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