Predictors of dental care utilization in north-central Appalachia in the USA.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Dental utilization is an important determinant of oral health and well-being. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential associations between a variety of biopsychosocial factors and dental utilization in north-central Appalachia, USA, a region where oral health disparities are profound.

Methods

This study used household-based data from the Center for Oral Health Research in Appalachia (COHRA1) study in north-central Appalachia, including 449 families with 868 adults. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) approach was used to determine the best-fitting predictor model for dental utilization among adult family members.

Results

On average across West Virginia and Pennsylvania, having dental insurance was associated with greater dental utilization ove

SUBMITTER: Chen M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6631312 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature