Oral Health and Oral Hygiene Status Among the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in India constitute a socioeconomically marginalized population, often residing in remote regions with limited access to basic health services, including oral healthcare. Despite their vulnerability, comprehensive data on their oral health status remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of oral diseases-particularly dental caries, periodontal conditions, and tobacco use-among PVTG populations in India.

METHODS

A thorough search was done across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, EBSCO, Google Scholar, and DOAJ to identify studies reporting oral health outcomes among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Study selection and methodological quality appraisal were performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for prevalence studies. Relevant data were extracted and pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Meta-regression, subgroup analyses, and sensitivity analyses were undertaken to explore sources of heterogeneity and assess the robustness of pooled estimates.

RESULTS

Twelve studies encompassing 7002 participants from diverse PVTG communities across India were included. The pooled prevalence of 6-8 mm periodontal pockets was 17% (95% CI: 8%-29%), while loss of attachment ≥6 mm was found in 27% (95% CI: 10%-50%). Smokeless tobacco use showed a high pooled prevalence of 39% (95% CI: 15%-66%). Poor oral hygiene, heavy calculus accumulation, and high caries burden were consistently reported. Substantial heterogeneity was noted across outcomes (I2 > 90%).

CONCLUSION

PVTG populations experience a disproportionately high burden of oral diseases driven by poor oral hygiene, widespread tobacco use, and inadequate access to dental care. These findings underscore the urgent need for culturally sensitive, community-based oral health interventions and integration of dental services into tribal welfare and public health programs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO number: CRD420251015301.