The number of edentulous (completely toothless) individuals worldwide is estimated
to be around 158 million as of January 2022.
The prevalence of edentulism, or tooth loss, is a significant public health concern with far-reaching implications. This analysis delves into the varied factors contributing to edentulism, exploring its prevalence in different demographics and regions globally.
Edentulism is more pronounced in rural areas compared to urban settings. This discrepancy highlights potential disparities in access to dental care and preventive measures.
Advancing age is a consistent predictor of edentulism, with no discernible difference between males and females. This emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate dental care for the aging population.
Despite the need, there is a notable hesitancy towards denture adoption. Merely 50% of those requiring complete dentures choose to wear them, and a mere 13% of those in need of partial dentures opt for their use.
The dental needs of the rural elderly population surpass those of their urban counterparts. This underscores the necessity for targeted dental health initiatives in rural areas.
Dietary choices play a role in edentulism, with vegetarians exhibiting a higher incidence compared to non-vegetarians. Understanding these correlations can inform dietary counseling and preventive strategies.
The issue transcends borders, as evidenced by global comparisons. In the United States, 25% of individuals over 60 experience edentulism, while Brazil faces a staggering 54% prevalence. In Mexico, the prevalence is 25%. These statistics highlight the urgency for comprehensive dental health strategies on a global scale.
In conclusion, the multifaceted nature of edentulism demands targeted interventions that address demographic, cultural, and geographical nuances. A holistic approach to dental health, encompassing preventive measures, accessible care, and awareness campaigns, is essential to mitigate the impact of edentulism on individuals and communities worldwide
Edentulism is a debilitating and irreversible condition and is described as the “final marker of disease burden for oral health”.
Edentulism leads to decreased social interaction because of difficulty in speaking and smiling and thereby increased isolation.
Edentulousness prevalence is high in developing countries. This is related to various factors like education, economic circumstances, lifestyle, oral health knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes towards dental care.
Dentures are the cheapest alternatives for edentulous patients. The sound of soft C and the letter S can be best done with a full set of teeth. Dentures improve nutrition by being able to consume a variety of foods. They also improve the facial sag and give a good smile and improve confidence.
