The Discrepancy between Perceived and Normative Oral Healthcare Needs among Older People in Kerala
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Context:The normative need is based on clinical assessment.There is a difference of opinion between the dentist and his patient regarding needs.The perception of health is subjective, so the perception of need reflects the individual's experience with the health system and the treatment received.Oral health care needs to be assessed by a dentist.Perception of health is influenced by values and norms.According to studies, perceived and normative oral healthcare needs differ.Aims: The aim of the present study is to assess the gap between clinical oral healthcare needs and perceived oral healthcare needs. Settings and design:The study is a population-based cross-sectional survey conducted among the older population in South Kerala.Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey identified 399 older people aged 60 and older for the study.We conducted an intervieweradministered questionnaire (the questions regarding perceived oral healthcare needs), followed by an oral examination using WHO methods for assessing normative oral healthcare needs.Statistical analysis used: To assess the relationship between clinically based oral healthcare needs and perceived oral healthcare needs, the sensitivity and specificity were determined.McNemar's test was done to find the association between associated variables.Results: Disparities between perceived oral healthcare needs and normative oral healthcare needs were found in dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis.There was a significant association between perceived oral healthcare needs and normative oral healthcare needs for dental caries (p < 0.000) and gingivitis (p < 0.000).Conclusion: The present study shows that there are significant differences in oral caries and gingivitis as well as periodontal disease.This study recommends improving dental literacy among the older population.Key messages: This cross-sectional study reports a discrepancy between perceived need and normative oral healthcare needs (clinically assessed) in major dental diseases like dental caries, periodontal diseases, and gingivitis among the older population.
Author: Reethu Salim
Language: English
Subfield: General Dentistry
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4400831770