Use of dental care by 18-year-olds in Poland and its impact on the condition of teeth and gums

ObjectivesCaring for oral health is especially important during adolescence because the habits formed at this age tend to persist throughout life. This study was performed to assess adolescents' use of dental care, the reasons for avoiding dental visits, and the reasons for their most recent visit.Materials and MethodsThe research included a clinical assessment of dentition and periodontal tissues, along with questionnaire-based studies. The number of teeth (T) and tooth surfaces (S) with carious lesions - ICDAS code 1 and 2 (D_1-2) and ICDAS code ≥3 (D _≥3) - as well as teeth missing due to caries (M), fillings (F), the presence of gingival bleeding, and periodontal pocket depth were assessed for all teeth. Values for D_1-2D_≥3MFT/S indices and their components, along with the frequency of caries and periodontal problems, were calculated.ResultsIn total, 1611 18-year-olds from both rural and urban areas were included in the study. Dental caries were observed in 94% of participants, with a mean D_1-2D_≥3MFT value of 7.07 ± 4.52. Gingival bleeding was the most common periodontal issue, affecting 31% of the group. One in four respondents had not visited a dentist in the past year or longer. Fear of pain was the most frequently reported reason for avoiding dental visits.ConclusionsFear of pain associated with dental treatment and the belief that dental problems will resolve on their own highlight the need for education targeting young people. Such education should emphasize the benefits of regular dental care and dispel the myth that dental treatment is inherently painful.