Epidemiology of dental caries in uruguayan adults in 2025–2026: inequities and intersectionality

Abstract

Objectives: To describe and analyze the distribution of dental caries among Uruguayan adults aged 35–44 years during 2025–2026, exploring oral health inequities through an intersectional approach that integrates gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic position, and territory, and to compare the findings with those obtained in 2010.

Methods: This national, descriptive, cross-sectional study is based on primary data from the 2025–2026 National Oral Health Survey (ENSB 2025–2026), using a multistage probabilistic sampling design. Dental caries will be assessed using the DMFT index and its components. Independent variables will include biological sex, ethnicity, income, health insurance coverage, and territory. Contextual variables related to socioeconomic status and structural sexism will be constructed from national and departmental indicators. Descriptive analyses and multilevel models will be conducted to evaluate associations and interactions from an intersectional perspective.

Expected Results: The study will provide updated epidemiological information on dental caries among Uruguayan adults and highlight oral health inequities from an intersectional perspective, considering gender, socioeconomic position, and territory. The findings are expected to contribute to the development of public policies and the strengthening of oral health surveillance systems.