Association of Social Support With Oral Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
GerodontologyMay 15, 2026 (epub)
Sungkrit Pojmonpiti, Saif S Syed, Murali Srinivasan et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the relationship between social support and oral health in older adults aged 75 years and over. The analysis included 40 studies and found that low functional support was linked to edentulism (OR 1.21) and non-regular dental service use (OR 1.20). Additionally, low structural support was associated with edentulism (OR 1.34) and lacking functional dentition (OR 1.41).
Key findings
- Low functional support was associated with edentulism (OR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.27).
- Low functional support linked to non-regular dental service use (OR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.23).
- Low structural support correlated with edentulism (OR 1.34, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.75).
- Low structural support associated with lacking functional dentition (OR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.20, 1.67).
Why it matters
Understanding the role of social support in oral health can help clinicians identify at-risk older adults and tailor interventions that address both psychosocial and dental needs, potentially improving overall health outcomes.