The impact of dental neglect on oral health: A population based study in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess dental neglect (DN) among Hong Kong citizens, to identify socio-demographic variations in DN and to determine the association between DN and oral health (self-reported). Design: Cross sectional population based study involving a random sample of 800 Hong Kong Chinese adults. Method: Telephone interview incorporating the dental neglect scale, assessment of self-reported oral health including an oral health related quality of life measure. Results: The response rate was 70% (556/800). Mean dental neglect score of the population was 14.81(S.D. 3.62) [possible range 6 to 30]. Most commonly, people were neglectful of using professional dental health care. Socio-demographic disparities in DN were apparent, in relation to age (P<0.05), income (P<0.05) and educational attainment (P<0.05). DN was associated with self-reported oral health: denture status (P<0.05), number of teeth possessed (P<0.05) and oral health related quality of life (P<0.05). Conclusion: Dental neglect is widespread in Hong Kong, particularly neglect of professional dental care. Socio-demographic disparities in dental neglect were apparent. Dental neglect is associated with self-reported oral health status including how oral health impacts on life quality. These findings have implications in understanding the impact of dental neglect. © 2007 FDI/World Dental Press.