English language proficiency, complete tooth loss, and recent dental visits among older adults in the United States

Abstract

Objectives: This study sought to provide population-based estimates of complete tooth loss and recent dental visits among older adults in the United States by English language proficiency. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the 2017 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey among participants ⩾50 years of age (n = 10,452, weighted to represent 111,895,290 persons). Five categories of language proficiency were created based on self-reported English language ability and language spoken at home (Spanish, Other). Results: The prevalence of complete tooth loss was higher among those with limited English proficiency (Spanish speaking: 13.7%; Other languages: 16.9%) than those proficient in English (Spanish speaking: 5.0%; Other languages: 6.0%, English only: 12.0%). Complete tooth loss was less common among participants for whom Spanish was their primary language, with limited English proficiency relative to English only (adjusted odds ratio: 0.56; 95% confidence interval: 0.42–0.76). Among those without complete tooth loss, dental visits in the past year were less common among participants with primary language other than English as compared to those who only speak English. Conclusions: Complete tooth loss varied by English language proficiency among adults aged ⩾50 years in the United States. Suboptimal adherence to annual dental visits was common, more so in those with complete tooth loss, and varied by English language proficiency.

Analysis of a Pediatric Dental School Patient Population Revealed Increasing Trends of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Patients: Implications for Pediatric Dental Public Health and Access to Care

“…For example, this study found an increasing percentage of patients with limited language proficiency over time (0.26% to 1.44%), which also included an increasing diversity of languages spoken (n = 4 to n = 21) over the same time period. These data are significant as recent studies have shown that limited language proficiency may be increasingly associated with gaps in healthcare coverage, lower levels of insurance and public assistance qualification, as well as decreased measures of oral health [54][55][56]. In fact, many studies have confirmed that non-English, non-Spanish speaking patients and households experience additional barriers and needs beyond those typically associated with low-income and low-SES populations, which may suggest additional resources are needed to reach them in language-and culturally appropriate ways [57][58][59].…”

Effects of a dental Spanish educational intervention among predoctoral students at a US dental school

“…The study of effective communication in delivering cross‐cultural patient care is an important issue in dental education. Language barriers present a significant obstacle to accessing dental care services, 1 as those with limited English proficiency discontinue care during active treatment more often with lower rates of routine recall 2 and are less likely to establish a dental home 3 . Specifically, Spanish‐speaking Hispanics experience poor oral health outcomes and obtain irregular dental care 4 .…”