Predictors of Self-Rated Oral Health Among Community-Dwelling Adults With Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background This study aims to identify predictors of self-rated oral health (SROH) among community-dwelling adults with diabetes. Given that SROH has been associated with regular dental visits, oral health conditions, and emotional well-being, understanding its predictors may help identify individuals at higher risk for poor oral health outcomes and develop targeted interventions. Methodology This study conducted a secondary data analysis of two cross-sectional surveys among adults with diabetes. In addition to descriptive analysis, a logistic model of SROH was estimated with the following set of predictors: demographics (age, ethnicity, gender, marital status, income, health insurance, and dental insurance), health condition (number of chronic diseases and hemoglobin A1c level), and self-rated health (SRH). Results There were 136 participants in this study, with a mean age of 58.94 ± 13.36 years. Overall, 52 (38%) were white, 80 (58.8%) were female, 80 (58.8%) had a high school or higher degree, and 91 (67%) rated their oral health as good. In the logistic regression model of SROH, family income that meets needs (odds ratio (OR) = 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.13, 0.90) and the presence of dental insurance (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.14, 0.89) were identified as protective factors against poor SROH. Furthermore, individuals who reported poor SRH were at greater odds of reporting poor SROH (OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.02, 6.64). Conclusions The findings from this study provide information on significant predictors of SROH in individuals with diabetes. This knowledge helps identify high-risk individuals and introduce tailored interventions to increase the quality of dental care and improve oral health and overall well-being.