Among demographic groups, which is associated with roughly twice the incidence of dental caries and more likely to be untreated?

Among demographic groups, which is associated with roughly twice the incidence of dental caries and more likely to be untreated?

• A. High income
• B. Middle income
• C. No income
• D. Low income

Answer: (D)

Socioeconomic status strongly shapes both how often dental caries occur and whether decay is treated. People with low income face barriers to prevention and care—limited insurance or ability to pay, transportation, time off work, and access to providers—so caries risk is higher and problems are more likely to go untreated. In contrast, higher-income groups typically have better access to routine dental visits, preventive measures, and timely treatment, which lowers both the incidence and the likelihood of untreated decay. Therefore, the association described is most consistent with low income.

Socioeconomic status strongly shapes both how often dental caries occur and whether decay is treated. People with low income face barriers to prevention and care—limited insurance or ability to pay, transportation, time off work, and access to providers—so caries risk is higher and problems are more likely to go untreated. In contrast, higher-income groups typically have better access to routine dental visits, preventive measures, and timely treatment, which lowers both the incidence and the likelihood of untreated decay. Therefore, the association described is most consistent with low income.