Introduction: Socioeconomic changes have a significant impact on the health of the population. Socioeconomic development of society is one of the basic determinants of the health condition and needs of the individual and in the population as well.
Aim: To explore the existence of differences in indicators of oral health status between the displaced persons and domicile population, considering the socioeconomic status (SES) of the respondents.
Patients and methods: A total of 310 people, aged 35-44 (mean 40.19 ± 3.60), were interviewed and examined, with 157 of them in a subsample of domicile inhabitants and other 153 respondents in displaced persons subsample. The SES of respondents was determined using a survey. After conducted examinations in study participants, determined results were recorded as dental status (DMFT Index), and periodontal status (CPI Index).
Results: There was a significant difference in the mean value of caries existence between displaced persons of low and middle SES. In domicile inhabitants, there were no statistically significant differences in mean values of caries existence between the individuals with low and middle SES, while the differences existed between the individuals with low and high and between the middle and high SES. Domicile inhabitants with high SES had significantly less carious lesions than those with lower SES. Domicile inhabitants with high SES had significantly fewer extractions and more teeth with fillings.
Conclusion: People with low SES have worse oral health status. Displacement and low socioeconomic status significantly influence the state of oral health.
Keywords: Socioeconomic; displaced persons; oral health.