Factors associated with oral health status among the healthy elderly in Phon Thong district, Roi Et province, Thailand

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify factors related to the oral health status of healthy elderly people in Phon Thong District, Roi Et Province, Thailand. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between 1 May and 25 December 2020 in Phon Thong District, Roi Et Province. A total of 249 male and female elderly people participated in the study. Oral health information was collected by trained dental hygienists using the Thai version of the oral health assessment tool [OHAT]. Data analysis used Mann–Whitney U tests, Chi-Square tests, and Binary logistic regression. Results: There were statistically significant associations between oral health status, age, and chewing ability. The results indicated that those who had poor oral health were more likely to have a higher age (Odd Ratio [OR] = 4.744, p-value < 0.001) and reported uncomfortable chewing (OR = 3.092, p-value = 0.033). Conclusions: This study found that older adults who reported masticatory discomfort were more likely to have poor oral health. Therefore, it is necessary to develop oral health care education programs for the elderly from the early stages of the elderly.