Association Between Sociodemographic Conditions and Employabiltiy Expectations to Oral Health

Objectives: To associate employability expectations to perceived oral status and sociodemographic variables.
Methods: Population comprised individuals of economically active age, both sexes. An observational analytical study was conducted on a sample of 756 individuals who attended a spontaneous demand dental care service (FOUBA). After signing a consent, a validated questionnaire was applied, personally, anonymously and voluntarily. This instrument aimed at establishing the impact of oral health self-perception on the expectations for obtaining employment. The instrument has 18 reagents (2 domains: "perception of hygiene, oral health and aesthetic condition" and "perspective of the condition of health and oral aesthetics in relation to job search"). responses were recorded on a Likert scale. Demographic data (age, sex) and related to employment (employment status, health coverage, job search, intention to change work, educational level) were recorded. A total score (PT) and domain score (PD1 and PD2) were prepared.
Results: The mean age was 34 ± 13 years, 71% female. 56.7% had a job, of which 44.1% intended to change it. Among those without jobs, 75.8% were in job search. 43.5% had health coverage and 48.5% were studying or had completed tertiary / university studies. PT, PD1 and PD2 were significantly higher in women, in people with intention to change jobs, in people over 40 years (p <0.001); while people who do not have health coverage presented greater value in PT and PD1 (p <0.001). At higher educational level, lower value was recorded in PT (r=-2.83); PD1 (r = -3,19) and PD2 (r = -0,180).
Conclusions: Self-perception of oral health status has a greater impact on employability expectations in women, people with intention to change jobs, over 40 years of age and lower educational level.