Factors Associated with Dental Service Use Based on the Andersen Model: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Dental Public Health
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• A systematic review on the determinants of dental service use based on the Andersen model was previously unavailable.
• The Andersen model is a widely recognized framework for understanding healthcare utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize existing research on the determinants of dental service use, specifically applying the Andersen model.
• To identify factors influencing dental service utilization in both pediatric and adult populations.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of three major electronic databases: PubMed, PsycInfo, and CINAHL.
• Inclusion of observational studies that examined determinants of dental service use through the lens of the Andersen model.

Main Results:

• Forty-one studies were included, comprising ten on children/adolescents and 31 on adults.
• For children, increased age, higher income, and greater oral health problems were linked to higher dental service use.
• Adult dental service use showed less consistent associations, though increased education was linked to higher use in half the studies.

Conclusions:

• The Andersen model's components (predisposing characteristics, enabling resources, need factors) significantly correlate with dental service use in children.
• Findings for adults were more varied, suggesting that factors beyond immediate health needs influence dental care access.
• The results indicate potential overuse or, more likely, underuse of dental services, underscoring the need to address inequalities in dental care research.