Complete tooth loss, known as edentulism, has decreased in the younger population, but remains widespread among the elderly. A population-based study by researchers from the Federal Universities of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) and Juiz de Fora (UFJF) looked for possible causes, finding that the problem is associated with daily habits, educational level, and socioeconomic status. It is more common among people over 60 who smoke, consume high-sugar soft drinks, and do not engage in regular physical activity. Among 22,728 individuals with an average age of 70 interviewed for the most recent National Health Survey (PNS) in 2019, complete tooth loss was 31.7%. From this group, 48% did not brush their teeth every day, 46% were illiterate, 37% smoked, 36% did not partake in regular physical activity, and 32% consumed sweetened soft drinks (a diet high in sugars contributes to a decrease in oral pH and the loss of dental tissue). The total or partial loss of permanent teeth—which is often preventable—can impair chewing ability, speech, appearance, and quality of life (Epidemiologia e Serviços de Saúde, May 12; PNS 2019).
