Certain studies have focused on tooth loss and its relation to diet and nutritional status. Two studies have documented that the intake of fruits and vegetables was negatively affected by the loss of teeth. Persons who have lost all or a substantial number of their teeth consumed fewer important nutrients, including dietary fiber. Biochemical levels of important nutrients were lower among those missing all or a substantial number of teeth. In addition, persons who had lost a substantial number of teeth were more likely to be obese than those with more teeth. These findings underscore the concept of a possible threshold number of teeth necessary for a “functional” dentition. Although the prevalence of tooth loss continues to decline in the United States, disparities remain. Older adults and smokers are consistently worse off than their counterparts. Racial/ethnic differences in tooth loss also exist, with non-Hispanic black adults retaining fewer teeth than non-Hispanic white and Mexican-American adults. Despite the overall decrease in tooth loss, continued research and tailored preventive efforts to eliminate those disparities are needed.
(Source: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 26, 2005)
