Malocclusions and social determinants of health in patients at the Eloy Alfaro Lay University of Manabí

Abstract

Malocclusions are among the most common disorders in dentistry and are commonly classified according to Angle's criteria into Classes I, II, and III. Although their origin is multifactorial, social determinants of health (SDH) can influence their onset and the timeliness of care. Objective: To analyze the relationship between malocclusions and social determinants of health in the Orthodontic Clinic of the Dentistry Degree at ULEAM during the academic period 2025-1. Materials and methods: A descriptive, correlational, observational, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted. The sample consisted of 90 patients selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Sociodemographic, clinical, and social determinants data were collected from medical records and administered surveys. Statistical analysis included frequencies, percentages, and the chi-square test to establish associations between variables. Results: Class I malocclusion was the most prevalent (71.1%), followed by Class II (25.6%) and Class III (3.3%). No statistically significant associations were found between Angle classification and gender (p = 0.567) or age (p = 0.090). Regarding SSD, conditions of vulnerability were identified, including food insecurity (45.6%), economic hardship (72.2%), and limited access to health services (45.6%). Conclusions: Although no significant associations were found between SSD and Angle class, the results show the presence of social factors that may indirectly influence oral health.