Tooth loss in a young population from south Brazil

Objectives: To assess the prevalence, extent, and risk indicators of tooth loss in a representative young urban population from south Brazil. Methods: A representative sample was drawn using a multi-stage probability cluster sampling strategy, and consisted of 612 subjects 14-29 years of age in the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, Brazil. A clinical examination was carried out by 4 calibrated examiners in a mobile examination center. Results: The prevalence of tooth loss was 44.8%, 26%, and 60%, and the mean tooth loss was 1.4, 0.6, and 2.4 teeth in the age groups 14-29, 14-19 and 25-29 years, respectively. First molars were the most frequently missing teeth, and the mandibular incisors and canines were the least missing teeth. Tooth loss increased sharply with age, and was similar in males and females. Having >= 4 missing teeth was significantly associated with low socioeconomic status and heavy smoking, and was significantly more likely in persons who had >= 2 teeth with caries/fillings and/or >= 5 mm attachment loss. Conclusion: Tooth loss is a dental health concern in this young Brazilian population. Community-based oral diseases prevention programs targeting groups having these risk factors should be implemented to reduce tooth loss.