Clustering of Signs and Symptoms of Oral Diseases in a Colombian Population

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to estimate disease pattern clusters and co-occurrences of oral signs and symptoms in a Colombian population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out through a telephone survey amongst 1155 people registered in the telephone directory from Pasto, Colombia. The calls were made from July to November 2019. A 14-item self-report questionnaire about signs and symptoms related to oral diseases that included sociodemographic characteristics was employed. Descriptive and multivariable analyses such as hierarchical clustering, multidimensional scaling, and generalized linear models were used to determine co-occurrences in different sex and age strata. RESULTS: Age- and condition-specific clusters of signs and symptoms were identified, while sex differences were limited. Calculus and denture sore mouth were related in 18- to 34-year-olds; tooth loss and calculus in 35- to 54-year-olds, and teeth holes or pits (dental caries) and dental abscess in those aged 55 years and older. We found stronger associations between periodontal disease (bleeding gums) and dental caries (odds ratio [OR], 2.484; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.812–3.405; P < .001) as well as grinding/clenching and facial tension (OR, 7.162; 95% CI, 5.227–9.814; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Age-specific clustering of signs and symptoms and diagnostic patterns wer present in ths Colombian cohort.