Socioeconomic Status Remains a Primary Driver of Dental Decay in U.S. Adults
A comprehensive study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (December 2025) reveals that oral health disparities in the United States remained starkly tied to socioeconomic status (SES) between 2011 and 2020. Researchers found that disadvantaged populations consistently experience significantly higher rates of dental caries (cavities) compared to their wealthier, more educated counterparts. Lead author Dr. Vahan Boyajyan of Drexel University noted that these findings highlight how financial and structural barriers continue to shape the oral health of the nation, suggesting a critical need for public policy reform. Analysis of the Data The study analyzed data from 22,855 adults (ages 25+) using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Researchers measured “caries experience” using the DMFT Index (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth). The researchers evaluated five key socioeconomic markers: Key Findings: The “Inequality Gap” After adjusting for age, … Read more