[Complete dentures in the Dutch population 1981-1992].

Area of Science:

• Oral health trends and epidemiology
• Prosthodontics and dental public health
• Socio-economic determinants of oral health

Context:

• A notable decline in full denture prevalence was observed in the Netherlands between 1981 and 1992.
• This decrease was most pronounced in younger adult populations.
• Significant regional variations in denture use existed, with higher rates in northern provinces and lower rates in Utrecht.

Purpose:

• To analyze trends in full denture use among adults in the Netherlands from 1981-1992.
• To investigate regional disparities and age-specific changes in denture prevalence.
• To examine the relationship between socio-economic status and the likelihood of requiring full dentures.

Summary:

• The study reveals a decrease in full denture use from 31.6% to 22.5% in the Dutch adult population (≥16 years) between 1981-1992.
• A substantial reduction in young individuals requiring full dentures contributed significantly to this overall decline.
• Long-term denture use is common, with approximately 40% of users having their prostheses for over 16 years.
• A negative correlation between socio-economic status (education, income, insurance) and full denture possession was identified in the general adult population, though this association was primarily linked to education in younger age groups.

Impact:

• Highlights evolving patterns in dental health and prosthetic needs within the Dutch population.
• Underscores the importance of socio-economic factors in oral health outcomes.
• Provides data for public health initiatives and resource allocation in dental care and prosthodontics.