Published In
Journal of Dentistry
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-2022
Subjects
Oral Health
Abstract
Objective
This study used a national database to update and examine current differences in men's and women's oral health and oral health behaviours in the United States.
Methods
Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for the 2017–2018 cycle were used to explore the relationship between males and females and their oral health. Multivariate analyses assessed for gender differences in oral health behaviors between genders after controlling for sample demographic characteristics.
Results
The final sample consisted of 4,741 participants. Males tended to have fewer dental visits, worse perception of their gum and tooth health, poorer flossing habits, and more root caries. Females were more proactive in visiting dentists and displayed a greater awareness of oral health. Females were less likely to report discussing oral cancer screening with their dentist even though they were screened more often. On examination, males were more often advised to seek urgent dental care than females. All these differences were statistically significant at p
Conclusions
Oral health and oral health behaviours demonstrate gender differences with men reporting poorer oral health, poorer oral hygiene habits, and fewer dental visits. These findings suggest gender-targeted strategies have the potential to improve oral health and reduce gender-related disparities.
Clinical Significance
This study found that women exhibit better oral health practices and behaviours. These differences may cause a disproportionate burden of oral disease in men and highlight the need for dentists, hygienists, and those interested in dental public health to develop gender-specific strategies to address these inequalities
Rights
Copyright (c) 2022 The Authors
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Locate the Document
DOI
10.1016/j.jdent.2022.104157
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/37658
Citation Details
Su, S., Lipsky, M. S., Licari, F. W., & Hung, M. (2022). Comparing Oral Health Behaviours of Men and Women in the United States. Journal of Dentistry, 104157.