title: Perceptions of tooth loss and periodontal problems in an independent elderly population: content-analysis of interview discourse.
abstract: Oral health/illness and surrounding socio-demographic and behavioral phenomena are poorly documented in the Mexican elderly. To establish the rationales explaining oral health/illness and tailor a Health Promotion intervention (1995-1997) accordingly, an interview nested in a questionnaire was done at baseline, with the recording of 228 interviews transcribed verbatim. Every transcript was subsequently assessed by content-analysis. Results showed that lack of oral hygiene, inadequate calcium intake and old age were the most common explanations of tooth-loss. Only a few factors were felt to be under control: the same state of relative adaptation that characterized people affected by gum problems. The themes that explained them were lack of oral hygiene, and (non-specific) infections. When interviewees evaluated the impact of good oral health on their lives, many made evaluations pertaining to quality of life, adequate function, and an attractive appearance generally.
authors: Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. maupome@unixg.ubc.ca
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Maupomé
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Borges
authors: L E
authors: LE
authors: Ramírez
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Díez-de-Bonilla