Influences on Oral Pain and Oral Health in Saudi Arabia
Author Information
Author(s): Mavragani Amaryllis, Shaik Reshma Parveen, Al-Khalifa Khalifa, Abogazalah Naif, Yiannoutsos Constantin, Soto-Rojas Armando E, Bindayeld Naif, Yepes Juan F, Martinez Mier Esperanza Angeles
Primary Institution: College of Dentistry King Khalid University
Hypothesis
What are the proximal and distal influences affecting oral pain and self-rated oral health status in Saudi Arabia?
Conclusion
Oral pain and self-rated oral health status in Saudi Arabia are influenced by various proximal and distal factors.
Supporting Evidence
- 39% of children, 48.5% of adolescents, and 47.1% of adults reported oral pain.
- Over 87% of participants rated their oral health as good, very good, or excellent.
- Higher tooth brushing frequency was associated with less oral pain.
- Frequent dental visits were linked to more oral pain.
- Sweet consumption increased oral pain in adolescents and negatively affected self-rated oral health.
- Soft drink consumption was associated with lower oral pain in adolescents.
Takeaway
This study shows that many people in Saudi Arabia have oral pain, but they still think their oral health is good. Brushing teeth often and visiting the dentist regularly can help improve oral health.
Methodology
This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed data from a national health survey conducted in Saudi Arabia in 2017, using path analysis modeling.
Potential Biases
Response bias may occur due to self-reporting, leading to inaccuracies in dental visit frequency and health status.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and self-reported data may introduce biases.
Participant Demographics
Participants included adults, adolescents, and children from various regions in Saudi Arabia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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