Oral Health and Risk Factors for Oral Disease

A 10 Year Longitudinal Study of Oral Health and Risk Factors for Oral Disease

Oral health has improved considerably in recent decades in Sweden, as well as in other countries. However, despite great improvements with regard to periodontal disease and dental caries in recent decades, global problems still persist, and as a consequence of retaining natural teeth high up in age, the risk for oral disease increases.

Traditionally, the number of teeth has been a measure of good oral health, and the World Health Organization (WHO) stipulated goals of a minimum of 20 functional teeth at the age of 80 years have been reached in some industrialized countries. Oral Health means more than good teeth and is integral to general health. The relationship between oral and general health has been recognized. For example, periodontal disease is associated with diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. The severity of periodontal disease and number of teeth have been associated with an increased burden of cardiovascular disease.

There is a lack of longitudinal studies of oral Health and risk factors for oral disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• None

Exclusion Criteria:

• None