Influence of Orthodontic-Related Complaints on Absenteeism and Presenteeism Among Japanese Workers

Workplace health has become increasingly important in recent years. However, the cost of managing workers' health is enormous, and increasing labor productivity is important for improving it. The association between labor productivity and common oral diseases, such as dental caries, periodontal disease, and tooth loss, has been reported. The need for orthodontic care in the working-age population is currently increasing; however, no studies have examined the association between work performance and orthodontic-related complaints. Hence, this study examined the impact of orthodontic-related complaints on labor productivity among Japanese workers.

The study involved 2,626 participants (2,136 males and 490 females; mean age: 44.8 years) who completed an internet-based self-reported survey. Participants were initially asked whether they had missed work, or been late, or left early due to oral health problems. For analysis, absenteeism (+) was defined as having at least one occurrence of (1) full-day absence, (2) half-day absence, or (3) late arrival/early departure, while absenteeism (-) was defined as having none. Presenteeism was assessed using the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire relative presenteeism score, with a threshold of 0.8 points. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between orthodontic-related complaints (esthetics, occlusion, speech) and absenteeism/presenteeism, with adjustment for sociodemographic and work factors.

Workers with orthodontic-related complaints had a significantly higher risk of absenteeism and presenteeism compared with those without such complaints. Those worried about occlusion were 3.56 times more likely to experience absenteeism (95% CI, 2.12-6.00), while complaints about speech issues led to a 1.60 times higher risk of presenteeism (95% CI, 1.60-2.54).

This study quantitatively demonstrated the impact of orthodontic-related complaints on work productivity. This suggests the importance of incorporating orthodontic treatment into workplace health management programs and policy formulations to enhance labor productivity and reduce economic risks associated with absenteeism and presenteeism.