A National‑Wide Analysis of Dental Services Utilization in Primary Health Care Settings in Rural Areas of Iran Publisher



Pouraghasi L ; Olyaeemanesh A ; Nouhi M ; Jafari M
Source: Journal of Education and Health Promotion Published:2026

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Children’s oral and dental health are vital components of overall health, affecting their growth, education, employment, and future prospects. Early childhood caries is a prevalent issue globally, placing significant financial strain on families and healthcare systems. This study aims to explore how children use the Primary Health Care oral health package to achieve Universal Health Coverage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross‑sectional study examined children’s utilization of services provided through the oral health package at PHC centers. Data on services delivered under the package were gathered from national systems and performance reports from insurance organizations. Multivariate linear regression using the Ordinary Least Squares method was used in STATA software to identify factors influencing the utilization of dental services at PHC centers. RESULTS: In 2019, 2225196 dental services were administered to children through the dental care package in 6157 PHC centers across 31 provinces. On average, each center provided 361 services. Zanjan Province had the highest rate of children’s utilization of dental services per capita in PHC centers (46,602 services per 100,000 population), which was more than seven times the lowest rate in Yazd Province (6,118). There was a positive correlation with the per capita availability of dentists, whereas a negative relationship was observed with the per capita tertiary education among the rural population. CONCLUSION: The per capita utilization of children’s dental services under the oral health package varied significantly across provinces. A notable portion of children nationwide did not access dental services at PHC levels. Although increasing the number of dentists can boost utilization, it is crucial to ensure an equitable distribution. Further national research is necessary to determine where these children are receiving the necessary dental services. © 2026 Journal of Education and Health Promotion | Published by Wolters Kluwer - Medknow.