Tooth-loss related masticatory and aesthetic experiences among middle-aged and older adult Danes

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether tooth loss relates to patient experiences of masticatory or aesthetic problems and is a useful measure of oral health and treatment needs and to compare experiences of tooth loss among middle-aged and older Danes.

BASIC RESEARCH DESIGN: Cross sectional online- and telephone interview questionnaire study.

PARTICIPANTS: 1,060 Danish citizens aged 40 years or older.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Experiences of difficulties eating/enjoying food or smiling/showing of teeth due to tooth related problems within the last 6 months. Data analysis used tests of proportions and ordinal logistic regression.

RESULTS: Half the participants had a full or almost full dentition. Among those with tooth loss, 21-44% reported difficulties eating/enjoying food. In ordinal logistic regression, difficulties eating were associated with being younger, having fewer teeth and having visibly missing teeth. Being unwilling to smile or show one's teeth was associated with being younger, having fewer teeth, having lower socioeconomic position and having visibly missing teeth. Wearing a prosthesis did not ameliorate eating difficulties or unwillingness to smile.

CONCLUSIONS: Tooth loss is a meaningful measure of oral health but cannot stand alone. Many adults with even substantial tooth loss did not experience functional or aesthetic problems. Tooth loss is associated with negative masticatory and aesthetic experiences among middle-aged than older adults. Removable prostheses were not associated with better functional or esthetic outcomes.