Risk factors for tooth loss in adult Japanese dental patients: 8020 Promotion Foundation Study

AIM: The assessment of the risk of tooth loss in patients visiting a dental clinic is important for managing their oral health. In the present study, we examined the risk factors for tooth loss among dental patients. METHODS: Data from the 8020 Promotion Foundation Study on the Health Promotion Effects of Dental Care were used in the present study. The study involved 2743 patients who visited a dental clinic in Japan and completed a questionnaire and oral health examination at baseline and at the 2-year follow up. Tooth- and person-level risk factors for tooth loss during 2 years were subjected to a multilevel multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: In both the person- and tooth-level analyses, age, smoking habit, reason for dental visit, economic status, number of remaining teeth, and periodontal status were significantly associated with tooth loss. In the tooth-level analysis, tooth type, tooth status, and periodontal status were significantly related to tooth loss. Persons who visited a dental clinic for periodic maintenance had a significantly lower risk of tooth loss than those who visited only to receive dental treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Various tooth-level factors and modifiable factors, such as smoking cessation and periodic maintenance, are important for the suppression of tooth loss in dental patients.