Self-Reported Oral Health Among Elderly Immigrants Residing in Norway: A Cross-Sectional Study

Immigrants represent 20.8% of Norway's population, with 22.2% aged 50+. This study aimed to assess oral health-related behaviors and perceived oral health in relation to sociodemographic factors among elderly immigrants aged 50+.

174 participants (94% response rate). Data on sociodemographic, oral hygiene, diet, snus use, xerostomia, and halitosis were collected using the self-reported questionnaire. p-value < 0.05 indicates statistical significance.

Participants' mean age was 60.7, with 60% reporting poor self-perceived oral health, and over 64% had missing teeth. Participants reported poor oral hygiene habits (35.1%, n = 61), frequent sugar consumption (51.1%, n = 89), and smoking (16.1%, n = 28). Poor oral health was more common in those aged 60 and over (OR = 2.5, CI: 1.1-5.8) and with a narrow social network (OR = 3.8, CI: 1.7-8.5). Women had lower odds of sugar consumption (OR = 0.38, CI: 0.18-0.8) and smoking (OR = 0.27, CI: 0.09-0.7), but living in Norway for less than 3 years increased smoking odds (OR = 4.5, CI: 1.2-15.8). Moreover, being unmarried (OR = 5.5, p = 0.008), recent immigration (OR = 24.3, p < 001), and a narrow social network (OR = 4.7, p = 0.004) were associated with higher odds of missing teeth.

Elderly immigrants in Norway reported poor oral health, tooth loss, and unhealthy dietary and hygiene habits, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.