The Barriers in Using Oral Health Services of People Aged 18 or Over in Danang in 2023: A Cross-sectional Study.

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to identify the barriers associated with access to oral health services among individuals aged 18 or over in Danang city.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study using a self-completed questionnaire with 29 questions built on the theoretical framework of Jean-Frederic Levesque and the modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS) was conducted on 386 people aged 18 years and older living in Danang city through face-to-face interviews. The study responses were closed after achieving the target sample size, with the sample collection period recorded as 3 months from October 2023 to January 2024. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software. Factors influencing the decision to use dental services among individuals who have either never used or have used oral care services more than 12 months ago were analyzed in univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: The proportion of participants who have either never utilized dental services or had last used them more than 12 months ago was 57.5%. Factors linked to the decision to seek dental care include personal dental hygiene practices, knowledge of oral health, accessibility to information, recommendations from peers, the process of scheduling appointments, examination duration, and income level, with odds ratio (OR) of 2.011-15.394 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: A large proportion of adults in Danang lack the habit of utilizing dental care services. The prevalent barriers include physical accessibility to dental facilities (such as locating, scheduling, and arranging appointments), affordability, and a deficiency in individual skills and knowledge regarding the importance of regular oral healthcare.

Clinical significance: The analysis of factors such as knowledge of oral health and service accessibility provides crucial insights for developing strategies to enhance community engagement in oral care. The clinical translational value of this research lies in its potential to support the development of more effective educational programs and healthcare policies, thereby encouraging regular oral health practices and improving the oral health of the community. How to cite this article: Khuong APV, Pham DA, Nguyen HTM, et al. The Barriers in Using Oral Health Services of People Aged 18 or Over in Danang in 2023: A Cross-sectional Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(11):1009-1014.