Association Between Paid Sick Leave and Dental Services Utilization Among Working Adults in the United States

Timely access to regular dental visits allows the detection of preventable conditions at an earlier stage. Nonetheless, 37% of adults aged 18 and above had no dental visits in 2020. Various factors affect utilization, but little is known about the influence of job characteristics. This study examined the association between paid sick leave (PSL) and different types of dental services utilization among working adults aged 18-64 in the United States.

The study sample population included employed adults aged 18-64 in the 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (N=7645). The four outcome variables were a binary variable of having any dental care, including preventive, diagnostic, and treatment dental care in the past 12 months. The primary independent variable was having PSL as a job benefit. A multivariable logistic model was used, adjusting for demographics, socioeconomic status, and general health status. All analyses were adjusted for complex survey design.

Seventy-three percent of working adults had paid sick leave benefits. Availability of PSL was significantly associated with higher utilization of any dental visits [Adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.38, 95% CI: 1.17-1.63], preventive dental care (aOR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.12-1.57), and diagnostic dental care (aOR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.11-1.55).

PSL is associated with a significant increase in dental services, preventive dental, and diagnostic dental visits. The study offers insights for medical practitioners and policymakers aiming to prevent adverse oral health outcomes, reduce disparities, and manage health care costs.