Demand for Dental Care in Household Mothers in Yazd, Iran

Introduction: Oral health is an important public health issue that influences general health and quality of life. Mothers are key persons in families paying attention to whom not only guarantees their oral health, but also the oral health of the family members. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the dental service demand status and its related factors among mothers in Yazd city. Materials & Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, total numbers of 300 mothers in urban areas of Yazd city were selected by cluster random sampling. Data was collected by a researcher designed questionnaire which validity was approved by a panel of experts and were completed by mother’s private interview. Results: Twenty seven percent reported that they use dental services less than 1 time per year, 28% reported 1 time per year and 45% reported more than one time per year. Only 30.7% had a regular check up program every six months. Annual dental services utilization rate was in relationship to educational level, receiving dental treatment source, the rate of a parent's attention to oral health, receiving oral health information source, socioeconomic status and deprivation from dental treatment because of financial problems. Having a dental check-up plan also was in relation to the above variables and income level. Conclusion: Demand for dental care among women is sophisticated and is in related to a variety of factors such as education level, financial issues, cultural issues, availability and accessibility of oral health services and cues to action. Addressing the above factors in intervention programs aimed to increase dental care utilization among women is recommended