Predictors and correlates of edentulism in healthy older people.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review peer-reviewed, original research studies published in 2008-2009 that present data relating to the predictors and correlates of edentulism and tooth loss in older adults.

RECENT FINDINGS

Edentulism rates vary markedly between countries and between urban and rural settings within countries. Rates are generally falling over time, but this reduction largely reflects a cohort effect on tooth loss in childhood and young adulthood. Socioeconomic factors, along with accompanying lifestyles and health behaviours remain strong predictors of edentulism, many of these factors relate to peak prior intelligence. Immunological mechanisms of tooth loss are becoming elucidated. Edentulism, itself, predicts mortality and correlates with a wide range of health outcomes, but these, in turn, also correlate with predictors of tooth loss such as peak prior intelligence. Edentulism correlates separately from these lifelong traits with measures of self-esteem and quality of life.

SUMMARY

Edentulism is important as a correlate of self-esteem and quality of life in older adults. It is also a useful marker of socioeconomic status earlier in life.