Acculturation and oral health status among tibetan immigrants residing in Bangalore City, India

Background: This study is the first of its kind conducted among Tibetans immigrants to Bangalore City, India to study the effects of acculturation on the oral health outcomes of less established group of individuals. Objectives: To determine the Acculturation and oral health status among Tibetan immigrants in Bangalore city and to assess the relationship between them. Materials and Methods: A random sample of 560 immigrants aged 18 years and above from different Tibetan centre of Bangalore city were included for the study. Acculturation was measured using modified Psychological-behavioral acculturation scale. Dental caries experience and periodontal status were recorded. Results: 49.1% of females and 50.9% of males were in highly accultured group. Bivariate analysis using Chi-square test was performed using 5% significance level. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a strong association between DMFT and Ethnic factors, and periodontal status with language barrier and utilization of health care. Discussion: Reducing disparities in oral health status and in the use of dental services among Tibetan immigrants require attention to cultural factors such as language barrier and age at migration and immigrant’s degree of acculturation.