Background: Healthy People 2010 Oral Health Objectives direct attention to the need for systematic data on disparities in oral health. In response, NIDCR researchers have been analyzing NHANES III data bearing on this theme. This presentation will focus on the lessons learned to date with regard to disparities among adults. Approach: The following aspects of oral health among persons 18 years and over have been the primary focus of attention: edentulism, untreated coronal and root decay, gingivitis, loss of attachment of 4+mm, the presence of tooth conditions involving pulpal pathology and retained roots, and recent use of dental services. Specific topics studied include disparities across gender, racial, racial-ethnic, and broad socioeconomic status categories of the adult population. Both contingency table and logistic analyses have been carried out using weighted data, statistical analyses appropriate to NHANES III's complex design, and models adjusting for potential sociodemographic confounders as well as a recent dental visit. Lessons Learned: The presentation will focus on: (1) the major empirical generalizations about disparities in adult oral health for which these NHANES III analyses provide evidence, (2) major methodological lessons, and (3) identified further research that needs to be carried out.
Learning Objectives: 1) Describe gender, racial, racial-ethnic, and socioeconomic status disparities in adult oral health 2) Evaluate whether any observed disparities are explainable in terms of potential sociodemographic confounders and a recent dental visit 3) Identify questions that still need to be studied through new data collection efforts or analyses of available national data resources
Keywords: Oral Health, Adult Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment