Brief communication (Original). Risk factors for tooth loss among adults aged 18 to 64 years in Taiwan

Background: In Taiwan, tooth loss increases with aging. However, little is known about the oral health of adults between ages 18 to 64 years and associated factors for tooth loss.

Objective: To identify associated independent factors for tooth loss among Taiwanese adults aged 18 to 64 years.

Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated oral health and tooth loss among adults aged 18 to 64 years. Demographics, tooth loss data, and oral health-related variables were collected from a secondary database and were analyzed to determine risk factors for tooth loss.

Results: In adults aged 18 to 64, older age, unmarried status, lower income, higher BMI, and chronic disease were associated with tooth loss. Adults with disease histories (i.e., hypertension, diabetes, asthma, heart disease) or who smoked or chewed betel nut were more likely to have missing teeth. Adults who had regular dental hygiene practices such as using dental floss, mouthwash, and having regular professional scaling were less likely to have missing teeth.

Conclusions: Knowledge of associated risk factors for tooth loss in adults aged 18 to 64 years may help develop national programs and policies for dental care in Taiwan specific for younger and middle-aged adults and help to promote long-term oral health throughout adulthood.