What factor is often associated with poor oral health literacy?

Poor oral health literacy is strongly linked to limited access to health information. When individuals do not have sufficient access to reliable and comprehensive health information, they may struggle to understand basic oral health concepts, preventive measures, and the importance of maintaining oral hygiene. This lack of understanding can lead to poor health practices, lower utilization of dental services, and overall detrimental outcomes for oral health.

In contrast, higher educational attainment, regular dental visits, and increased dental insurance coverage are often correlated with better oral health literacy. Individuals with higher education typically have more exposure to health information and better skills to process it, leading to improved oral health practices. Regular dental visits often provide opportunities for education and guidance from dental professionals, helping to bridge gaps in understanding. Additionally, increased dental insurance coverage usually facilitates access to dental care, which can also enhance knowledge and awareness of oral health issues through ongoing professional interactions.