Epidemiologic surveys have frequently shown noticeably poorer oral health among minorities compared to Whites. We compare the oral health status across races among 29,684 male dentist participants in the Health Professionals Follow-Up study, to explore disparities in a group with among the highest oral health orientation and access. The objective is to assess the degree of oral disease and oral health disparity that could be eliminated in the general population if they were to receive similarly high levels of care. The population consists of 89.3% whites, 1.2% blacks, 1.8% Asians and 7.7% others, was evaluated by questionnaires. Periodontal measures have been validated; the validity of other measures is expected to be good among dentists. At baseline, 87% of whites, 72% of blacks and 83% of Asians had >25 teeth. Although blacks had somewhat fewer teeth at baseline, they were less likely to lose teeth during the follow-up, (7% of blacks reported having lost 1 or more teeth over the past two years, compared to 9% whites and 12% Asians). Mild periodontal disease was slightly lower among whites. The major disparity is for moderate periodontal disease; 25% blacks compared to only 11% whites and 10% Asians. Severe periodontal disease was reported by 1.6% whites, 2.2% blacks and 2.4% Asians. Forty-nine% Asians, 38% Blacks and 69% Whites reported 10 or more decayed/filled teeth; and 59% whites, 56% blacks and 64% Asians had root canal(s). In this population with good oral health, the disparities in oral health status across races are relatively small.
Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to: 1. Describe the disparities in oral health across races among dentists. 2. Assess the extent to which oral diseases and disparities in oral health could be prevented in the general population 3. Discuss and propose next steps in research, policy and program development to reduce oral health disparities
Keywords: Minority Health, Epidemiology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.