Missing Teeth in Older Adults in Myanmar: Evidence From the First National Oral Health Survey

National data on missing teeth, functional dentition, and prosthodontic coverage among older adults in Myanmar remain limited. This study assessed the prevalence of missing teeth and non-functional dentition, identified their associated factors, and evaluated prosthodontic coverage.

This cross-sectional study was a secondary analysis of Myanmar national oral health survey 2016-2017 data, including 1260 adults aged 60-74 years. The number of missing teeth was calculated by combining WHO codes 4 and 5. Functional dentition was defined as ≥ 20 natural teeth. Linear regression and modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation were used.

The mean number of missing teeth was 9.9 (SD 8.7), 46.8% had a non-functional dentition, and only 6.8% had any denture. After adjustment, participants aged 70-74 years (B: 3.78, 95% CI: 2.68-4.88) and poor self-rated oral health (B: 3.45, 95% CI: 2.54-4.36) were associated with more missing teeth and higher prevalence of a non-functional dentition (aPR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.33-1.78 and aPR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.33-1.70, respectively). Never having visited a dentist was associated with a greater burden of both dependent variables. Chewing tobacco use, toothpaste use, and oral pain or discomfort were associated with fewer missing teeth and lower prevalence of a non-functional dentition.

Missing teeth and a non-functional dentition were common among Myanmar older adults, with extremely low prosthodontic coverage. These findings highlight the need to strengthen primary oral healthcare, with greater emphasis on prevention, early care, and access to affordable prosthodontic services.