Factors affecting tooth loss among rural Khon Kaen adults: analysis of two data sets

Tooth loss is an oral health problem affecting Thai people and people of other nations as well. Not much of epidemiologic evidence concerning factors affecting tooth loss among Thai people has been reported although severity of tooth loss among Thai people has never been decreased.

This study employed two existing data sets to evaluate the role of health behaviors such as tobacco smoking and betel quid chewing (a common habit prevalent among rural Thai females), together with other factors in relation to tooth loss among rural Thai people. The study population in the first (phase I) and second (phase II) data sets included 1484 and 3471 male and female adults residing in rural areas of Khon Kaen province, Thailand during 1990-1991 and 1992-1994, respectively. The data were obtained through oral examination and interview. Employing descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable Poisson regression, key risk indicators of tooth loss were identified for both data sets.

The findings from final multivariable Poisson regression models were consistent in that tobacco smoking, betel quid chewing, age, dental caries (defined as decayed plus filled teeth) and periodontitis were significantly related to tooth loss among these rural populations.

Therefore, preventive programs aiming at discouraging Thai people from smoking tobacco and/or chewing betel quid should be established so that healthy natural teeth can be maintained.