Health Literacy and Other Factors Associated With Recent Dental Care Utilization Among Mexican-American Adults

Abstract

Introduction and Aims Health literacy (HL) plays a role in determining whether patients can successfully navigate dental care systems and access needed care. This study examines the association between HL on recent dental care utilization among Mexican-American young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Cross-sectional survey data from 333 participants aged 21–40 living near the United States–Mexico border were analysed, guided by an adapted version of Andersen’s Behavioural Model for Health Services Utilization. Recent dental utilization, defined as a dental visit in the past 12 months, was the main outcome. HL was measured using a 3-item screener (range: 1–5, higher scores reflected better HL). Multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for predisposing, enabling, need, and environmental factors. Results Sixty percent of participants reported a dental visit within the past year. The mean HL score was relatively high (3.9 ± 0.9). Higher HL was associated with greater odds of a past year dental visit (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.02-1.97, p < .05). Having a usual source of dental care was associated with greater odds of a past year visit (OR = 2.37, CI = 1.42-3.97, p < .05), whereas reporting current dental care needs was associated with lower odds of a past year visit (OR = 0.23, CI = 0.13-0.41, p < .05). Conclusion Greater health literacy, having a regular source of dental care, and current dental care need were independently associated with dental care utilization among young Mexican-American adults. The inverse association between dental need and utilization highlights missed opportunities to engage patients at highest risk. Clinical Relevance Findings have practical implications for community dentistry and public health practice, particularly for improving communication strategies, patient navigation, and continuity of dental care among populations experiencing barriers to dental care.