Risk indicators associated with tooth loss in Jordanian adults

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk indicators of tooth loss in Jordanian adults.

A sample of 509 Jordanian adults was randomly selected. The subjects were interviewed regarding demographics, social economic status, smoking habits, and oral hygiene practices and then clinically examined by a single examiner. Multiple regression analysis was performed to estimate the simultaneous impact of risk indicators on tooth loss.

The subjects' mean age was 42.6 years with an average of 20.9 teeth remaining per person. The overall educational level of the subjects was low. More than 40% reported not brushing their teeth regularly and 56% had had no professional teeth cleaning during the last year. Monthly family income averaged JOD 231, and about a third of the subjects were smokers. The mean number of remaining teeth decreased significantly with age. Smokers, those who brushed irregularly, and those who had not had professional teeth cleaning in the last year had significantly fewer remaining teeth. Men also had significantly fewer remaining teeth. Education and income were also significantly associated with the number of remaining teeth. Age, income, brushing, prophylaxis, and gender collectively explain 75.1% of the variance in the number of remaining teeth.

Modification of non-disease independent factors could reduce tooth loss and improve oral health in Jordanians.