Tooth Loss and Prosthetic Treatment in Dependent and Functionally Impaired Individuals with Respect to Age and Gender

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of tooth loss and prosthetic treatments in dependent, functionally impaired individuals with the general population. Materials and Methods: Data collected from 250 subjects from a register covering dependent and functionally impaired individuals in Sweden were compared with data from matched controls. The collected variables included number of teeth, tooth loss, and prosthetic treatments in the different jaw regions. Results: The study group had a lower mean number of teeth and a higher proportion of complete tooth loss than the control group. Dentures were more common in the study group, and fixed prostheses, including dental implants, were more common in the control group. Gender-based differences related to tooth loss were also apparent. Conclusion: In spite of a well-organized recall system for dental care, differences still existed in tooth loss. The differences were more apparent in older individuals and appeared to be related to general health, functional impairments, and gender. Prosthetic treatment options were unevenly used and only one implant overdenture was found.