[A comparative study for the permanent teeth decay between Shanghai and Osaka citizens]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Dental caries (tooth decay) is a global health concern.
• Oral health varies significantly between different populations and geographic locations.
• Understanding regional differences in caries prevalence is crucial for targeted public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the incidence and experience of permanent teeth decay between citizens of Shanghai and Osaka.
• To analyze differences in caries treatment status between the two populations.
• To identify potential areas for improving oral health, particularly in specific age groups.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving dental examinations of 3819 individuals in Shanghai and 484 in Osaka.
• Data collected in 1996 (Shanghai) and 1993 (Osaka) from participants aged 5-74 years.
• Assessment of caries experience using Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index and caries incidence rates.

Main Results:

• Permanent teeth decay incidence was 59.82% in Shanghai versus 92.77% in Osaka.
• Mean DMFT scores were substantially lower in Shanghai residents compared to Osaka residents.
• The proportion of individuals with filled caries was higher in Osaka (52.99%) than in Shanghai (32.61%).
• Mean sound teeth percentage was higher in Shanghai (21.74%) than in Osaka (12.21%).

Conclusions:

• Osaka exhibits a significantly higher prevalence and experience of dental caries in permanent teeth compared to Shanghai.
• Differences in caries treatment rates suggest variations in dental care access or practices.
• Oral health initiatives, especially for individuals over 50, may be particularly needed in Shanghai to address existing disparities.