The Utilization Rate of Dental Services between Iranian Households before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused challenges in accessing and utilizing healthcare, particularly dental services. This study focuses on determining the impact of the pandemic on Iranian households' use of dental services and the factors that influence it.

The statistical population of this study consisted of households throughout the country, with a sample size of 76,495 households. The study employed a logistic regression model, and statistical analysis was conducted using Access, Excel, and STATA 15 software.

The study found that fewer households utilized dental services after the outbreak of COVID-19. The ratio of dental service utilization before and after the occurrence of COVID-19 was 4.59% and 2.84% of households, respectively. Additionally, households with insurance coverage were more likely to use dental services, while households with an employed head, a highly educated head with high income, and households with elderly members were less likely to utilize dental services.

For improving the utilization of dental services after the COVID-19 pandemic among Iranian households, particularly those: without insurance, living in rural areas, with elderly members, and headed by women, evidence-based interventions should be implemented.