Summary
This exploratory pilot study documented a high prevalence of untreated dental caries and severe odontogenic consequences amongst socioeconomically vulnerable adults in the Netherlands. Using validated clinical indices and quality-of-life questionnaires, the researchers found that 65.5% of participants had untreated caries, with 57.9% experiencing severe odontogenic complications. Individuals with severe odontogenic consequences reported significantly higher oral health impact scores, underscoring the social gradient in oral health and its measurable effect on quality of life.
Regional applicability
The findings are likely applicable to vulnerable populations in the United Kingdom, where similar socioeconomic disparities in oral health have been documented. This study provides a methodological framework (DiPCare-Q translation, DMFT/PUFA assessment, OHIP-14 measurement) that could inform UK dental public health research and policy interventions targeting marginalised communities.
Key measures
DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Permanent Teeth) index; PUFA (Pulpal, Fistula, Ulceration, Abscess) index; OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile-14) questionnaire; DiPCare-Q (Deprivation in Primary Care Questionnaire)
Outcomes reported
The study measured the prevalence of untreated dental caries (65.5% of participants) and severe odontogenic consequences (45.5%) using DMFT and PUFA indices, and documented the impact on oral health-related quality of life using the OHIP-14 questionnaire.
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