Tooth Loss in Seniors (2024)

Overall, the prevalence of both partial and total tooth loss in seniors has decreased from the early 1970s through the latest cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2016). In spite of this improvement, significant disparities remain in some population groups.

Tables 1 and 2 present information about tooth loss for seniors aged 65 years and older and for selected population groups.

Number of Teeth Remaining (Table 1)

  • Seniors 65 years and older have an average of 20.7 remaining teeth.
  • Older seniors, Black and Hispanic seniors, current smokers, and those with lower incomes and less education have fewer remaining teeth.

Percentage of Seniors with Total Tooth Loss (Table 2)

  • 17.3% of seniors 65 years and older have no remaining teeth.
  • Older seniors, women, Black seniors, current smokers, and those with lower incomes and less education are more likely to have no remaining teeth.

Table 1: Seniors, Mean Number of Permanent Teeth Remaining

Mean number of permanent teeth among seniors aged 65 years and older, by selected characteristics: United States, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999–2004 and 2011–2016.
CharacteristicMean Number of Permanent Teeth, 1999–2004Mean Number of Permanent Teeth, 2011–2016
Age
65–74 years19.321.7
75 years or more18.419.5
Sex
Male19.020.8
Female18.820.6
Race and Ethnicity
White, non-Hispanic19.421.6
Black, non-Hispanic15.116.0
Mexican American18.017.9
Poverty Status (Income compared to Federal Poverty Level)
Less than 100%15.616.0
100% to 199%17.018.3
Greater than 200%20.122.2
Education
Less than High School15.916.9
High School18.119.2
More than High School21.022.1
Smoking History
Current Smoker15.315.8
Former Smoker18.120.2
Never Smoked19.921.6
Overall18.920.7

Data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral Health Surveillance Report: Trends in Dental Caries and Sealants, Tooth Retention, and Edentulism, United States, 1999–2004 to 2011–2016. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services; 2019.

Table 2: Seniors, Percent with No Remaining Teeth

Mean percentage of seniors aged 65 years and older with no remaining teeth, by selected characteristics: United States, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999–2004 and 2011–2016
CharacteristicPercentage with no Remaining Teeth 1999–2004Percentage with no Remaining Teeth 2011–2016
Age
65–74 years24.013.0
75 years or more31.222.5
Sex
Male24.517.7
Female29.216.9
Race and Ethnicity
White, non-Hispanic25.915.2
Black, non-Hispanic33.730.7
Mexican American24.416.7
Poverty Status (Income compared to Federal Poverty Level)
Less than 100%43.834.1
100% to 199%36.126.1
Greater than 200%17.310.7
Education
Less than High School43.034.8
High School28.321.3
More than High School13.69.3
Smoking History
Current Smoker49.742.8
Former Smoker28.818.5
Never Smoked21.512.1
Overall27.217.3

Data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral Health Surveillance Report: Trends in Dental Caries and Sealants, Tooth Retention, and Edentulism, United States, 1999–2004 to 2011–2016. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services; 2019.

Last Reviewed

July 2022

Tooth Loss in Seniors (2024)

FAQs

How do you fix rotten teeth without going to the dentist? ›

As a result, there is no natural way to remove them at home. Only a dentist can fix a cavity by filling it in. That said, home care can prevent cavities. Food and bacteria buildup form a sticky film on the teeth's surface and along the gumline.

What happens if you lose a tooth as an adult? ›

If you lose an adult tooth, time is of the essence. Your dentist may be able to reimplant the tooth if you can see them within the hour. If you are not able to save or reimplant the tooth, you will need to get the tooth replaced as soon as possible with partial dentures, a bridge, or a dental implant.

How can I rebuild my tooth enamel naturally? ›

Eat a Remineralization Diet

Certain foods can help remineralize softened areas in your teeth that acidic foods and drinks have weakened. For example, foods rich in calcium (dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt) help put back minerals into the enamel, and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables encourage saliva flow.

When can a tooth not be saved? ›

However, if a tooth is severely damaged, your dentist may not be able to save it. In these cases, they will normally recommend that the tooth be removed. Dentists may recommend removal in the following circ*mstances: Dental injury resulting in a cracked or fractured tooth or root.

How do you stop a rotten tooth from smelling? ›

In some cases, simply cleaning the tooth and the area below the gum line may be enough. In the case of tooth decay, filling the cavity is usually enough to get rid of the smell.

What happens if you don't get a rotten tooth pulled? ›

Spread of Infection: Untreated decay can lead to infection, which may spread to surrounding teeth and gums, causing further damage. Pain and Discomfort: Delaying extraction can result in persistent pain and discomfort, affecting your daily activities and quality of life.

Can salt water tighten loose teeth? ›

Your dentist may suggest you rinse with salt water regularly to clear the bacteria from your mouth. This will hopefully let the bone and tissue mend, resulting in your tooth tightening back up after a few weeks. It is still recommended to discuss this with your dentist in case you need more urgent treatment.

What happens to the root when a tooth falls out? ›

If you've ever seen a baby tooth fall out naturally, however, you'll realize that the root is never attached. Typically, the root dissolves long before the tooth fairy has a chance to come and collect! The process that causes the teeth in a child's mouth to loosen and become “wiggly” is known as exfoliation.

Is it okay to live with a missing tooth? ›

This can cause teeth to migrate and result in alignment and orthodontic problems, such as crooked teeth and a misaligned bite. Missing teeth can increase the risk of tooth decay and periodontitis (gum disease) in a few ways. A misaligned smile from the teeth shifting can cause someone's bite to become off.

What is the sweet mineral that rebuilds teeth? ›

Phosphorus. When considering how to strengthen tooth enamel, consider phosphorus. Phosphorus plays a critical role in dental health because it can naturally help protect and help rebuild tooth enamel.

What do teeth look like without enamel? ›

As the enamel erodes more, your teeth may appear grayish or yellow. Your teeth may begin to appear rounded, develop ridges, and often the gaps between teeth will become more substantial. Eventually, you may notice cracks in the teeth or experience loss of tooth material.

Can anything really repair tooth enamel? ›

Can Tooth Enamel Be Restored? Once tooth enamel is damaged, it cannot be brought back. However, weakened enamel can be restored to some degree by improving its mineral content. Although toothpastes and mouthwashes can never “rebuild” teeth, they can contribute to this remineralization process.

How long can a dead tooth stay in your mouth? ›

A dead tooth can remain inside the mouth for several days, weeks, months, or even years. The exact time depends upon the extent of the damage. However, keeping a dead tooth for a long time can have a major impact on oral health.

Is it better to save a tooth or pull it? ›

Keeping your natural tooth is always going to be your safest bet. With that being said, there are extenuating circ*mstances that may leave no other choice than extraction. Your dentist or endodontist will evaluate your specific condition and take a look at all possible measures to save the tooth.

Can a rotting tooth be saved? ›

Certain modalities may help halt the process of tooth destruction and rotting, but once the rotting sets in, it cannot be reversed. In the early stages of tooth rot (small cavity), a dentist may perform a fluoride treatment to strengthen or remineralize the tooth, which may halt the progression of the cavity.

How can I treat rotten teeth at home? ›

Suggested Home Remedies for Tooth Decay:
  1. Oil Pulling.
  2. Amla.
  3. Liquorice.
  4. Aloe Vera Gel.
  5. Green Tea.
  6. Clove Oil.
  7. Oregano Oil.
  8. Cinnamon Oil.
Jan 16, 2024

Can rotting teeth be saved? ›

Certain modalities may help halt the process of tooth destruction and rotting, but once the rotting sets in, it cannot be reversed. In the early stages of tooth rot (small cavity), a dentist may perform a fluoride treatment to strengthen or remineralize the tooth, which may halt the progression of the cavity.

How can I fill my tooth hole at home? ›

So, can you fix cavities at home? Unfortunately, no. Only a dentist can repair a cavity, so you should make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. However, you do have the power to halt the decay and prevent future damage.

How much does it cost to fix rotten teeth? ›

The average cost of filling cavities with resin-based composite is $200 for a single surface. The price could range from $100 to $400 based on the factors outlined above. With proper dental hygiene, regular checkups, and general maintenance, resin-based composite can last from 5 to 15 years.

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