Factors related to persons with health problems attributed to dental filling materials : part one in a triangular study on 65 and 75 years old Swedes

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate persons having problems with dental filling materials in a Swedish population, their perceived oral health, and their reception from dental care personnel. The development over time (between 1992 and 2007) has also been studied concerning the presence of problems from dental filling materials. In two counties in Sweden, Orebro and Ostergötland, all persons born in 1942 have been surveyed by mail every fifth year since 1992. In the year 2007, all persons born in 1932 also received the same questionnaire. The total number of respondents in 2007 were 9813 persons (response rate 72.6%). Logistic regression models were constructed with those having had problems or not from dental filling materials as dependent variable. Multiple regression analysis was done with selfperceived oral health as dependent variable. There were about 10% (868) reporting problems from dental filling materials. There were clear differences between the two groups, having problems or not. The group reporting problems from dental filling materials perceived both their general and oral health as being worse compared with others. More frequently they had asked questions about adverse effects from dental filling materials, had changed dental fillings and crowns, and had amalgam present. They also felt less well treated by dental personnel and were not so pleased with dental care in general as others. In conclusion, there were many persons perceiving problems from dental filling materials. Forthose, both perceived general health and oral health was worse and they were less satisfied with dental care in general. No consistent common characteristic, neither as to socioeconomic nor lifestyle factors, could be shown for those having experienced problems from dental filling materials