Socioeconomic,sociodemographic, and clinical variables associated with root caries in a group of persons age 60 years and older in Mexico

Aim: To determine the prevalence of root caries and the root caries index in a population of older Mexicans, and its relationship to socioeconomic, sociodemographic and dental factors. Methods: We carried out a cross‐sectional study in 85 persons 60 years and older living either in long‐term care facilities, or independently and attending an elder day‐care group. Each subject underwent an oral examination, performed by a trained and standardized dentist, to determine the root caries index and other clinical variables. Questionnaires were administered to collect socioeconomic, sociodemographic and hygiene data. Statistical analyses were performed using non‐parametric tests. Results: The prevalence of root caries was 96.5%. The root caries index was 37.7% ± 21.7%. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) of root caries index were observed across residential arrangements and marital statuses, and were higher in publicly funded long‐term care and among single subjects (P < 0.05). Those who had poor hygiene had more root caries (P < 0.05); persons with a low level of schooling and who brushed their teeth less frequently also showed a difference (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The prevalence of root caries was very high. The type of long‐term care, marital status, schooling and oral hygiene were associated with a higher root caries index. Oral health programs and preventive caries interventions are needed for this age group in general; targeted strategies may be better focused if sociodemographic profiles are used to characterize high need groups. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 271–276.