Prevalence of self-assessed tooth discolouration in the United Kingdom

To determine the prevalence of perceived tooth discolouration in the United Kingdom and to investigate socio-demographic variations and satisfaction with own tooth colour.

A national cross-sectional questionnaire study was carried out using a multistage random probability sample. Assessment of people's perceptions of their own tooth colour was conducted by asking study participants to match colour to the closest of a set of photocards demonstrating different levels of tooth discolouration. A separate question asked how satisfied they were with their tooth colour. Information on socio-demographic characteristics of the population were gathered at the same time.

Data was coded and entered into SPSS software. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of perceived discolouration and satisfaction with own tooth colour. Bivariate and regression analyses were performed to explore the effect of socio-demographic variations.

The self-assessment exercise was completed for 3215 subjects. Half of the study population perceived their tooth colour to be normal and 6% perceived that they had severe discolouration, the remainder reported themselves to have levels of tooth discolouration between these two extremes. Satisfaction with tooth colour decreased with increased discolouration. Sex, age, income and smoking, had statistically significant effects on the prevalence of perceived discolouration (P< 0.01).

Half of the people in this study perceived themselves to have tooth discolouration. Results suggest that the general public is concerned about dental appearance in terms of tooth colour, indicated by public dissatisfaction with relatively mildly discoloured teeth. Findings may suggest that a further increase in the demand of tooth whitening services and cosmetic dentistry in general is likely. The changing emphasis and level of perceived dissatisfaction need to be taken into account in planning dental services. Evidence based approaches are needed for the appropriate management of patients who demand treatment of mild discolouration.