Mediating effect of resilience on untreated dental caries among adults in Hyderabad, India: A cross-sectional study

Background

Resilience, a psychological trait associated with adaptability and stress management, has been increasingly recognized as a determinant of health outcomes. However, its role in oral health, particularly concerning untreated dental caries, remains under-explored. This cross-sectional study examines the mediating effect of resilience on untreated dental caries among adults visiting a Government Dental Hospital in Hyderabad.

Materials and method

A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients attending a government dental hospital. Resilience was assessed using the Adult Resilience Measure – Revised (ARM-R), while dental caries was evaluated using the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the mediating effects of sociodemographic factors and oral health behaviors in the relationship between resilience and untreated dental caries.

Results

A significant negative correlation was observed between resilience and untreated dental caries (p = 0.001), indicating that individuals with lower resilience levels had 12 times higher odds of developing dental caries. Employment status emerged as a key mediating factor (∗∗β = 0.30, p = ∗∗∗), with higher resilience levels being associated with better employment outcomes, which in turn influences access to dental care. Additionally, increased brushing frequency was identified as another mediator (β = 0.08, p = 0.02), suggesting that individuals with greater resilience are more likely to engage in positive oral health behaviors.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the protective role of resilience in oral health by influencing employment status and oral hygiene practices, thereby reducing the risk of untreated dental caries. These results underscore the need for integrating psycho-social interventions aimed at enhancing resilience in oral health promotion programs.