Prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with tooth loss patterns: A cross-sectional study in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Tooth loss is a prevalent oral health issue with significant implications for individuals' quality of life, nutrition, and psychosocial well-being. Despite advancements in preventive dentistry, disparities in tooth loss persist, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. This study aimed to examine the association between socio-demographic factors and patterns of tooth loss specifically the number and location of missing teeth among adult patients seeking prosthodontic treatment in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 307 adult patients attending prosthodontic clinics. Data were collected through clinical examination combined with short interviews to capture socio-demographic variables (age, gender, education level, income, and nationality) and teeth loss status. Pearson chi-square and fisher exact probability tests were used to assess associations between these variables and both the number and location of missing teeth. Data were analyzed using SPSS 29. Nearly half of the participants (48.9%) had more than two missing teeth, with posterior tooth loss being the most common (76.2%). Age, education level, and income were significantly associated with the number of missing teeth (p < 0.05), while gender and age were significantly associated with the location of missing teeth (p < 0.05). Lower education and income levels were linked to higher rates of tooth loss, and older adults were more likely to have missing teeth in both anterior and posterior regions. This study underscores the need for policymakers to prioritize disadvantaged populations by developing inclusive, cost-effective oral health strategies that address social determinants and support community-based prevention in Makkah and similar regions.