However, only few studies have addressed the contextual factors associated with tooth loss. Therefore, because of its universal use, water fluoridation may help reduce inequalities in oral health, Even among adults, the effect of fluoride in drinking water as a measure to prevent dental caries may be similar among individuals born before or after this measure was implemented. Inequalities between social strata may cause risk or protective factors to emerge, thereby affecting the population in a heterogeneous manner.Īnother contextual aspect to consider is water fluoridation. Therefore, it is essential to understand the social stratifications and the exposures and vulnerabilities that are associated with these stratifications. Socioeconomic conditions expose individuals to environments that are more or less favorable. Because it results from caries, tooth loss may also be influenced by the availability of fluoridated drinking water.Ĭontextual factors related to the place of residence can also influence tooth loss. Tooth loss is determined by several factors, including educational level, family income, oral hygiene habits, and food intakeĪs well as the use of and access to dental care services.Ĭhanges in lifestyle and social conditions are essential to reduce the inequalities caused by tooth loss among the socially disadvantaged population.Īnother important factor that needs to be addressed is the influence of fluoridated water on tooth loss in individuals and their time of residence in the same location, considering the limited number of studies on the availability of this resource. Social gradients have been reported to be associated with inequalities in oral health, indicating the need to better understand how these inequalities manifest in society.
Tooth loss is a known marker of health inequalitiesĪnd can be considered a public health problem because it impacts the quality of life by causing loss of functional capacity, pain, and suffering. In a study on global disease burden in 2010, severe tooth loss (fewer than nine permanent teeth present) was considered the 36 th most prevalent condition with an overall estimate of 2.3%. Tooth loss is a serious threat to oral and general healthĪnd primarily results from the progression of dental caries and periodontal disease.
0 kommentar(er)
