Overview

Abstract (English)

Objectives: To compare the magnitude of, and contributors to, income-related inequalities in oral health outcomes within and between Canada and the United States over time. Methods: The Concentration Index (CI) was used to estimate income-related oral health inequalities from two Canadian and two American cross-sectional surveys, and decomposed to determine the potential contributors to inequalities. Results: Pro-poor inequalities were observed in oral disease outcomes and pro-rich inequalities in oral health outcomes, with greater magnitude in the United States. Decreases in inequalities for edentulism and increases in decayed teeth were observed in both countries over time. Inequalities in filled teeth decreased in the United States and increased in Canada. Socioeconomic characteristics contributed greater to inequalities than demographic characteristics, with greater contributions of income over time. Conclusions: Oral health inequalities have persisted over time in Canada and the United States and are associated with age, sex, education, and have varied over time.

Abstract (French)

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