Trends in Edentulism: A Cross Sectional Community Based Study

Abstract

Background:
Edentulism remains a significant public health concern, reflecting the cumulative impact of oral diseases, socioeconomic disparities, behavioral factors, and access to dental care. Understanding the determinants of tooth loss is essential for planning effective preventive and rehabilitative strategies.

Objective:
To assess the prevalence of partial and complete edentulism and to evaluate its association with sociodemographic characteristics, tobacco use, oral hygiene practices, and dental service utilization among adult participants.

Materials & Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 adult participants selected using a predefined sampling strategy. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to record demographic details, educational and socioeconomic status, tobacco consumption habits, oral hygiene practices, and dental visit patterns. Clinical examination was performed to assess dentition status, which was categorized as dentate, partially edentulous, or completely edentulous. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26.0. Associations between dentition status and independent variables were assessed using the Chi-square test. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of edentulism. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results:
Of the 500 participants, 47.2% were dentate, 40.8% were partially edentulous, and 12.0% were completely edentulous. The prevalence and severity of edentulism increased significantly with advancing age (p < 0.001). Higher rates of edentulism were observed among females, individuals with lower educational attainment, lower socioeconomic status, tobacco users, and those with irregular or no dental visits. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that age ≥60 years Adjusted Odds Ratios (AOR = 8.92), lower socioeconomic status (AOR = 3.11), tobacco use (AOR = 2.58), irregular dental visits (AOR = 2.14), and lower educational status (AOR = 1.96) were significant independent predictors of edentulism (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:
Edentulism was highly prevalent in the study population and was significantly associated with advancing age, socioeconomic disadvantage, tobacco use, low educational status, and poor dental service utilization. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive oral health programs, tobacco cessation initiatives, and improved access to regular dental care, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.