Behavioral and Social Correlates of Oral Health among Adults: A Cross-sectional Study

Few studies have investigated the behavioral and socioeconomic determinants of oral health in a developing country like Iran. The purpose of this study is to analyze the behavioral and socioeconomic factors affecting oral health indices in participants. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 353 patients presenting to dental clinics in Ahvaz, Iran, during 2021–2022. The questionnaire included questions eliciting background information and oral health factors. To determine the oral health outcomes for all patients, the DMFT index and Oral Health Index-Simplified (OHIS) were measured. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, t -test, Kruskal–Wallis test, Pearson’s Chi-square test, and negative binomial regression models. The significance level of the tests was set at P < 0.05. A total of 353 adults (45.0% female, mean [standard deviation] age = 36.84 (13.20) years) were included, with a mean age of 36.84 ± 13.20 years and a mean DMFT score of 8.31 ± 5.73. Lower socioeconomic status was associated with poorer OHIS scores ( P < 0.05). The mean DMFT score was 8.31 ± 5.73. In the multiple negative binomial regression model, higher DMFT scores were associated with older age and male gender (incidence rate ratio = 1.19; 95% confidence interval: [1.03, 1.38]; P = 0.013). Conversely, more frequent tooth brushing and more dental visits per year were associated with lower DMFT scores. This study showed several behavioral, social, and demographic factors contribute to oral health indices among the participants. To effectively tackle the burden of oral health conditions, it is suggested to incorporate interventions targeted at behavioral change with addressing social inequalities.