Factors associated with comprehensive dental care following an initial emergency dental visit

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to characterize the patient population utilization of a dental home as grouped by: (1) age; (2) sex; and (3) payment method. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 1,020 patients, who initially presented for an emergency visit, was performed. From the original data pool, 2 groups were delineated: (1) those patients who returned for comprehensive dental care; and (2) those who did not return for comprehensive dental care. Results: Patients with private dental insurance or Medicaid dental benefits were statistically more likely to return for comprehensive oral health care than those with no form of dental insurance. Younger patients (≤3 years of age) were least likely to return for comprehensive dental care. Conclusions: Socioeconomic factors play a crucial role in care-seeking behaviors. These obstacles are often a barrier to preventive and comprehensive oral health care.