Oral Health Statistics

Varying degrees of gum inflammation (periodontal disease) affect approximately 200-300 million Americans. Periodontal diseases as a group are the number one cause of tooth loss. Periodontal diseases can be chronic (lasting a long time or recurring) or acute (extremely serious).

Over 75% of the population suffers from periodontal disease, the number one cause of tooth loss in adults 35-years old and older.

Periodontal diseases may contribute to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, pre-term low-birth weight babies, respiratory disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and more.

At least 23% of women 30 to 54 have periodontitis, 44% of women 55 to 90 who still have their teeth will have it.

One out of three women in the U.S. will have none of her original teeth by the age of 65.

Research shows that women with osteoporosis are more susceptible to eroding jawbones and tooth loss, and they are more likely to have dentures by the age of 60.

There are debates regarding the notion that severe osteoporosis raises the bar to increase the chances of having no teeth by three times.

More than 50 million Americans wear complete or partial dentures; 1-1/2 million people join their ranks annually.

Studies by the American Academy of Periodontology, the National Institute of Health (NIH), and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research show that people with adult periodontitis may have an increased risk of having a fatal heart attack.

More than 400 over-the-counter and prescription medications including diet pills, some antidepressants, and some heart medications can affect oral health because they decrease the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums. The reduction of saliva puts people at risk of cavities, gum disease, and discomfort when swallowing.