The oral health of disadvantaged adolescents in North York, Ontario

Abstract

Disadvantaged youth such as the homeless, the unemployed or recent immigrants are thought to be at high risk for dental problems, but data to support this hypothesis are rare. Using interviews and clinical examinations, this study measured the oral health status and treatment needs of a convenience sample of 478 disadvantaged adolescents aged 14 and older in North York, Ontario. Although the results cannot be generalized to the overall population, the data suggested that disadvantaged youth have high rates of oral disease. The adolescents reported a variety of symptoms, including oral pain and low rates of dental visiting. Clinically, high rates of periodontal disease, dental decay and urgent treatment needs were detected. If public health resources are to be directed to those most in need, efforts should be made to identify high-risk groups that may be overlooked in general surveys. Prevention, detection and treatment programs should be considered for high-risk adolescents.