Tooth loss and edentulism among older adults living in urban areas in West Pomerania, NW Poland

Introduction
At present, older people are a priority group of World Health Organization (WHO) activities in the field of oral health. In Poland, the age group from 65 to 74 years was first included in epidemiological studies of the dental situation in 1998. Loss of teeth affects oral health, quality of life, and possibly the general health of older people.

Objectives
To determine the prevalence and factors associated with tooth loss and edentulism among older people in West Pomerania, NW Poland.

Material and methods
The study included volunteers from a group of 2500 people selected by the Ministry of the Interior and Administration. Information on selected sociodemographic characteristics was obtained based on interviews. Clinical examination provided information on the average number of missing teeth and the number and type of preserved teeth.

Results
The mean number of missing teeth (with SD) in the examined population was 13.1 (8.3). First molars were the most frequently missing teeth in both the maxilla (65.8%) and mandible (81.3%). There were statistically significant differences in the average number of missing teeth in relation to age, place of residence, level of education, monthly income and source of financing dental treatment. There were three significant risk factors for edentulism: relying solely on the state-funded dental services, OR = 5.18 (2.49-10.80), low level of education, OR = 3.88 (1.82-8.28), and age, OR = 1.15 (1.02-1.29).

Conclusions
The percentage of completely edentate older adults in West Pomerania, NW Poland remains at a high level. The average number of missing teeth and the percentage of completely edentate older adults depend on economic status and educational level. The proportion of older adults with at least 20 preserved teeth is very low, and therefore the need for prosthetic treatment and masticatory rehabilitation is probably high.