inklap

Predicting the Need to Visit a Dentist in Young to Middle-Aged Adults: A Development and External Validation

Miika Penttala · Dentistry Journal · 2026

Background/Objectives: A multivariable prediction model was developed and externally validated to estimate an individual’s current need to visit a dentist among young to middle-aged adults. The objective was to provide an accessible, non-invasive screening tool for independent home self-assessment or integration within routine healthcare workflows. Methods: A cross-sectional study utilised data from two National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles (2011–2014). Logistic regression was applied to develop the prediction model among 1870 dentate adults aged 30–50, a critical onset period for oral diseases. The primary outcome was derived from objective oral examinations conducted by licensed dentists. The resulting questionnaire-based tool provides two recommendations: a visit to a dentist or continuation of routine oral care. Results: External validation using the independent NHANES 2013–2014 cohort (n = 2024) demonstrated robust and clinically relevant predictive capacity, with an AUC of 0.822 (95% CI 0.803–0.842). The model exhibited acceptable calibration (slope 0.85; intercept 0.04) and stable operation. Decision-curve analysis showed net benefit across thresho

📖 افتح في inklap 🔗 DOI 📮 اطلب بحثاً