Assessment of predictors of global self-ratings of oral health among Korean adults aged 18-95 years

Objectives: The aims of this study were to assess predictors of global self-ratings of oral health (GSROH) and to examine whether they varied by age among Korean adults aged 18-95 years. Methods: Data from 4,546 adults aged 18-95 years completing the Korean National Oral Health Survey 2006 were included in the analysis. Results: Subjects' mean age was 43.5 years, with 12.1 percent aged ≥65 years; 47.8 percent were men; and 2.5 percent were edentulous. The predictors of GSROH in adults were number of missing teeth, concern about oral health, and difficulty in chewing. While wearing removable dentures was associated only in elders, perceived treatment need was associated in younger age groups. The number of decayed and filled teeth was significant only in the 18-44 age group. Conclusions: GSROH status was associated with measures of oral disease, oral functional problems, oral health behaviors, concerns, and perceived treatment needs, and it varied by age.