Neighbourhoods and oral health: Agent-based modelling of tooth decay

This research used proof of concept agent-based models to test various theoretical mechanisms by which neighbourhoods may influence tooth decay in adults. Theoretical pathways were constructed using existing literature and tested two study areas Sheffield, UK. The found a pathway between shops sugar consumption had the most on adult scores, revealing that similar this outcome different populations. highlighted importance interactions neighbourhood features individual level variables influencing outcomes decay. Further work is required improve accuracy reliability models. • Relevant frameworks theory can help highlight complexity influences oral health outcomes. Proof ABMs with shops, diet led greatest increases pattern was seen both higher lower socio-economic profiles. Pathways dental related behaviours such as visits toothbrushing did not significantly impact scores.