The data underscore what experts say is an ongoing public health challenge with wide-ranging effects on nutrition, communication, mental health and social participation.
The PolSenior2 study found that only 20 percent of Poles aged 60 and older retain a functional set of teeth, defined as 20 or more. Nearly half have partial tooth loss, while one-third are completely toothless.
Around 80 percent of those with partial tooth loss use dentures, and over 90 percent of people without any teeth rely on full prosthetics.
Complete tooth loss becomes more common with age and is more frequently observed among women, people with lower levels of education, and those living in rural or eastern regions of Poland.
Hormonal changes and osteoporosis, which weakens the jaw and skull bones, are contributing factors in older women.
Dentists point to a combination of poor oral hygiene, systemic illness and lifestyle habits as the main causes of tooth loss. These include infrequent brushing and flossing, diets high in sugar and low in nutrients, smoking, and the long-term effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
"Very few cases of tooth loss are due to trauma or genetics," said Dr. Michał Mazurec of Medicover Stomatologia. "In most cases, it’s the result of years of neglect – too many sweets, too little brushing, and above all, smoking.”
Mazurec emphasized that age itself is not the cause. Rather, the problem builds up over decades, often beginning with a failure to replace a missing tooth.
Poor hygiene and chronic illnesses such as diabetes and gum disease accelerate the process.
Tooth decay and periodontitis are the leading oral diseases that lead to tooth loss. Tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria, especially Streptococcus mutans, which can spread through shared utensils or drinks. These bacteria erode the hard tissues of the tooth, eventually leading to infection and loss if untreated.
“Decay begins with the demineralization of the tooth’s outer layers and can result in inflammation of the pulp and supporting structures,” said Dr. Beata Moritz, a dentist at Medicover Stomatologia.
Gum disease affects the tissues that anchor the tooth and can lead to swelling, bleeding, and in advanced cases, shifting or loss of the tooth.
Other causes include erosion and attrition. Erosion occurs when acidic foods and beverages, such as sugary sodas or energy drinks, wear away the enamel.
Attrition is the physical grinding of teeth against each other, often triggered by stress or jaw misalignment.
Both conditions weaken the protective layers of teeth and increase the risk of breakage and decay.
While some tooth loss may be unavoidable, dentists say prevention and early intervention are key.
"Oral health is deeply tied to overall wellbeing,” said Mazurec, urging better hygiene habits, regular dental checkups and public education to address what remains a widespread issue in Poland’s aging population.
The World Health Organization considers complete tooth loss to be a form of physical disability.
People without teeth often struggle with chewing, speech and jaw alignment. This can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, digestive problems, and impaired verbal communication, which in turn may cause feelings of frustration or social withdrawal.
(rt/gs)
Source: zdrowie.pap.pl