Education and Chronic Periodontitis: A Meta-Analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Adrien Boillot, Bechara El Halabi, George David Batty, Hélène Rangé, Sébastien Czernichow, Philippe Bouchard
Primary Institution: Department of Periodontology, Rothschild Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
Hypothesis
Does educational attainment influence the risk of periodontitis in adults aged 35 and older?
Conclusion
Low educational attainment is associated with an increased risk of periodontitis.
Supporting Evidence
- Individuals with low education have a greater risk of periodontitis (OR: 1.86).
- The association remains significant after adjusting for covariates (OR: 1.55).
- Sensitivity analyses indicate that study methods and definitions of periodontitis contribute to heterogeneity.
Takeaway
People with less education are more likely to have gum disease. This means that helping them learn about dental care could make their teeth healthier.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies examining the association between education level and periodontitis risk in adults aged 35 and older.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the observational nature of the studies and variations in study design.
Limitations
The study is observational, and significant heterogeneity was found between included studies.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged 35 and older from various countries including the USA, Australia, Brazil, and others.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.00001
Confidence Interval
1.66–2.10
Statistical Significance
p<0.00001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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