Factors associated with dental care utilization among Iranian adult population: a systematic review

Factors associated with dental care utilization among Iranian adult population: a systematic review

Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being, yet many individuals struggle to access and utilize dental services regularly. This systematic review aims to explore the factors associated with dental care utilization among the adult population in Iran, a country with a unique healthcare system and cultural landscape.

Importance of Dental Care Utilization

Dental care utilization refers to the regular and effective use of dental services, including preventive care such as dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and oral examinations, as well as necessary restorative treatments like fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions. Consistent dental care is essential for the prevention and management of various oral health conditions, including tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Regular dental visits can help identify and address issues in their early stages, often leading to more straightforward and less invasive treatments. Furthermore, regular prophylaxis (professional cleaning) can remove accumulated plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of periodontal disease and its associated complications, such as tooth loss and systemic health problems.

Challenges in Dental Care Utilization

Despite the clear benefits of dental care utilization, many individuals, particularly in developing countries, face significant barriers to accessing and utilizing these services. Factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, demographic characteristics, and overall health beliefs can all contribute to an individual’s likelihood of seeking and receiving regular dental care.

In Iran, where the healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers, understanding the factors associated with dental care utilization is crucial for developing targeted interventions to improve oral health outcomes.

Systematic Review Methodology

This systematic review was conducted to identify and synthesize the current evidence on the factors associated with dental care utilization among the adult population in Iran. The review followed a comprehensive and rigorous approach, including a thorough search of relevant databases, critical appraisal of the included studies, and a synthesis of the findings.

The review included studies that focused on the adult population (aged 18 years and older) in Iran and examined the factors associated with the utilization of dental services. The search was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, to ensure a comprehensive coverage of the existing literature.

Factors Associated with Dental Care Utilization

The systematic review identified several key factors that influence dental care utilization among Iranian adults. These factors can be broadly categorized into the following domains:

Socioeconomic and Demographic Factors

Socioeconomic status emerged as a significant determinant of dental care utilization. Studies have consistently shown that individuals with higher levels of education, income, and employment are more likely to access and utilize dental services regularly. This may be due to better financial resources, increased health literacy, and a greater understanding of the importance of oral health.

Demographic factors, such as age and gender, also play a role. Older adults tend to have lower rates of dental care utilization, potentially due to physical limitations, reduced mobility, or lack of financial resources. Additionally, some studies have suggested that women are more likely to utilize dental services compared to men, which may be attributed to a stronger focus on preventive health behaviors.

Health Beliefs and Behaviors

An individual’s health beliefs and behaviors can significantly influence their dental care utilization. Factors such as perceived need for dental care, attitudes towards oral health, and health literacy have been shown to be associated with the likelihood of seeking and receiving regular dental care.

Individuals who perceive a greater need for dental care, have positive attitudes towards oral health, and possess higher levels of health literacy are more likely to prioritize and utilize dental services. Conversely, those with low health literacy or negative perceptions of oral health may be less inclined to seek regular dental care, leading to poorer oral health outcomes.

Access to Dental Services

Access to dental services is another crucial factor that affects dental care utilization. Factors such as availability of dental providers, geographic proximity, and affordability of dental care can all influence an individual’s ability to access and utilize dental services.

In Iran, the distribution of dental providers and the availability of affordable dental care may vary across different regions, contributing to disparities in dental care utilization. Individuals living in urban areas or with better access to dental services are more likely to utilize these services compared to those in rural or underserved areas.

Oral Health Literacy

Oral health literacy, defined as an individual’s ability to obtain, process, and understand basic oral health information, is a significant factor in dental care utilization. Individuals with higher levels of oral health literacy are more likely to recognize the importance of regular dental visits, understand the prevention and management of oral health conditions, and actively seek and utilize dental services.

Improving oral health literacy through educational interventions and public health campaigns can empower individuals to take a more proactive approach to their oral health, leading to increased dental care utilization and better oral health outcomes.

Implications for Dental Care Providers

The findings of this systematic review have important implications for dental care providers in Iran and potentially other countries with similar healthcare systems and cultural contexts.

Tailored Approaches to Patient Education and Engagement

Dental care providers should prioritize patient education and engagement, particularly targeting individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, older adults, and those with lower levels of health and oral health literacy. By addressing the specific barriers and concerns of these populations, providers can help improve their understanding of the importance of regular dental care and encourage them to utilize dental services more consistently.

Collaborative Efforts with Public Health Authorities

Dental care providers should collaborate with public health authorities and policymakers to develop and implement strategies that address the systemic barriers to dental care utilization. This may involve advocating for increased access to affordable dental services, particularly in underserved areas, and supporting the integration of oral health into primary healthcare initiatives.

Leveraging Technology and Digital Solutions

Innovative digital solutions, such as telemedicine and mobile dental clinics, can help expand the reach of dental services and improve accessibility, especially for individuals with limited access to traditional dental care. Dental care providers should explore and utilize these technological advancements to enhance the delivery of dental services and better meet the needs of the population.

Conclusion

This systematic review highlights the multifaceted factors that influence dental care utilization among the adult population in Iran. By understanding the socioeconomic, demographic, health-related, and access-related factors that shape dental care utilization, dental care providers and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to improve oral health outcomes and ensure equitable access to quality dental services.

Ultimately, promoting regular dental care utilization is crucial for maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. By addressing the barriers and empowering individuals to prioritize their oral health, we can work towards a future where all Iranians have the opportunity to access and utilize the dental care they need.

To learn more about our comprehensive dental services and how we can help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health, please visit Station Road Dental Aldergrove.

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