Oral health and sociodemographic predictors among elite athletes with and without disabilities in Malaysia: A cross-sectional study

Background This study compared oral health status between elite athletes without disabilities (EA) and elite athletes with disabilities (EAWD); determined the prevalence of caries, periodontal disease, trauma, erosion, and oral infections; explored associations with sociodemographic factors; and identified predictors of poor oral health outcomes. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among Malaysian EAWD and EA recruited from national training centres (February 2022 to January 2024). Clinical assessments were performed using validated indices including the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) for caries, Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE) for periodontal health, and Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) for erosion. Sociodemographic data were collected using structured questionnaires. Group comparisons and multivariable regression analyses were used to examine associations and predictors of oral health outcomes. Results The study included 58 EAWD and 58 EA. EAWD had significantly poorer oral health, with higher caries experience (89.7% vs 70.7%; ICDAS: 2.72 ± 1.91, p = 0.002), periodontal scores (BPE: 2.50 ± 0.76, p = 0.034), and open pulp scores (0.45 ± 0.75, p = 0.003). EA exhibited higher erosion (BEWE: 0.98 ± 1.12, p < 0.001) and trauma prevalence (20.7% vs 1.7%; p < 0.001). Education level was a consistent predictor of poor oral health in both groups. Conclusion High levels of dental caries and periodontal disease were found in both groups, with significantly poorer status among EAWD. The findings highlight unmet oral health needs and the influence of sociodemographic disparities. Integrating routine dental screening and preventive care into athlete health programmes is essential to improve their oral health. Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable.