6th German Oral Health Study (DMS • 6): research design, data collection, and statistical methods of the longitudinal...

Area of Science:

• Dental epidemiology
• Public health
• Longitudinal studies

Background:

• The German Oral Health Studies (DMS) have provided socio-epidemiologic data on oral health since 1989.
• The 6th study (DMS • 6) introduced a longitudinal cohort design, re-examining participants from DMS V after approximately 9 years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze incident oral diseases and individual disease trajectories over a 9-year period.
• To identify antecedent risk factors associated with changes in oral health.
• To provide insights into the long-term oral health of different age groups in Germany.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1,089 participants from DMS V was followed up, with a retention rate of 31.3%.
• Participants were categorized into adolescents, adults, and seniors based on age at baseline and follow-up.
• Data on oral health, behaviors, and sociopsychological characteristics were collected via clinical exams and surveys in two waves (2013-2014 and 2022-2023).

Main Results:

• Longitudinal statistical analyses described changes in disease patterns, comparing prevalence and means at baseline and follow-up.
• Incidence, progression, and rates of oral conditions were estimated.
• Association analyses explored the influence of participant characteristics on oral disease changes.

Conclusions:

• The DMS • 6 cohort study provides crucial longitudinal data on oral disease development and risk factors.
• Findings will inform public health strategies and interventions for maintaining oral health across the lifespan.
• Understanding disease trajectories is essential for targeted oral healthcare.