Oral health status in Sichuan Province: findings from the oral health survey of Sichuan, 2015–2016

A survey of over 8 000 residents from Sichuan in China found evidence of poor oral health, especially dental caries and periodontal disease. The study, led by Tao Hu and Xuedong Zhou of Sichuan University, looked at teeth, gums and oral mucosa in three age groups: 3–5 years, 12 years, and 65–74 years. The examinations were performed using World Health Organization guidelines designed to promote international comparison. Despite significant improvements in recent years, oral disease in multiple forms was still highly prevalent in all age ranges, with rural areas suffering from poor disease prevention and treatment. The elderly had a particularly high prevalence of disease. The results of the survey provide strong evidence that improvement of oral health requires prioritization by local authorities.