Hospital inpatient admissions for nontraumatic dental conditions among Florida adults, 2006 through 2016.

BACKGROUND

In this study, the authors analyzed patterns, trends, and correlates of hospital inpatient admissions for nontraumatic dental conditions (NTDCs) in Florida for the calendar years 2006 through 2016.

METHODS

The study was a retrospective analysis of hospital inpatient admissions for NTDCs throughout Florida. The authors derived data from a database maintained by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, the state's primary health policy and planning entity.

RESULTS

There were 26,659 hospital inpatient admissions for NTDCs during the 11-year period. The number of admissions increased from 1,808 in 2006 to 3,542 in 2016, and total charges increased from $46.1 million to $166.5 million. The most common diagnosis was periapical abscess without sinus. Emergency departments were the most frequent source of admission.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospital inpatient admissions for NTDCs are a growing challenge in Florida. If trends continue, hospital inpatient admissions for NTDCs will place an increasing burden on the state's health care system.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Increasing numbers of hospital inpatient admissions for NTDCs are largely a consequence of using emergency departments to address dental-related conditions. This growing dental public health concern has major implications for health care resources and outcomes.