The European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), in collaboration with Dentaid, has launched the Oral Health Throughout Life campaign to provide practical advice for maintaining optimal oral health at every stage of life, from childhood to senior years.
Oral health is integral to overall health and well-being. The foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles starts early in childhood. The EFP recommends that a child’s first dentist visit occur when their first tooth appears, followed by preventive guidance on diet, brushing, and general oral care. Studies show that around 50% of children experience tooth decay by the time they reach toddlerhood, and the loss of primary teeth can lead to orthodontic complications later.
As children transition into their teenage years, unique oral health challenges arise. Hormonal changes during puberty can make gums more sensitive, increasing susceptibility to gingivitis if proper oral hygiene is neglected. Teenagers, gaining more independence, often skip brushing or indulge in sugary foods and drinks, heightening the risk of cavities. In Europe, 77% of adolescents are affected by caries, with those aged 16-19 having the highest incidence. While severe gum disease is uncommon, 73% of teenagers show signs of gingival bleeding.
In adults aged 20-59, dental caries remains a major public health issue, affecting between 40% to 90% of the population. The EFP recommends regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings at intervals based on individual needs, typically ranging from three to six months. The connection between oral health and systemic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, is also crucial for adults.
The statistics underscore the importance of oral health at all life stages. Despite advances in oral health awareness, more than half of children suffer from cavities, up to 90% of adults are affected by gingivitis, and 23% of older adults experience edentulism. As Professor Anton Sculean, Chair of the EFP Projects Committee, points out, understanding how oral health evolves is vital to mitigating these risks.
For seniors, age-related changes, medical conditions, and medications present unique challenges. Nearly all adults over 65 have had cavities, with 20% suffering from untreated decay. Additionally, xerostomia, or dry mouth, which affects one-third of older adults, can result from medications and leads to a higher risk of dental infections and caries. The use of multiple medications (polypharmacy) can further complicate oral health. To manage these issues, seniors should use fluoride toothpaste, employ interdental brushes, stay hydrated, and visit the dentist at least twice a year. Proper care of dentures is also essential.
The Oral Health Throughout Life campaign aims to provide comprehensive, accessible guidance for maintaining healthy smiles through every phase of life. Manel Vera, CEO of Dentaid, emphasizes the campaign’s mission to not only develop solutions tailored to individual needs but also raise public awareness about the importance of oral health. “With this campaign, we aim to offer high-quality, evidence-based information that empowers individuals to improve both their oral and overall health, enhancing their quality of life at every stage.”
Professor Sculean reinforces this message, stating, “Periodontal disease is not an inevitable part of aging. For adults and seniors, addressing the challenges of aging, chronic conditions, and medication use is critical to preserving oral function, preventing complications, and improving life quality.” Regular dental visits, proper oral hygiene, and effective management of health conditions, he notes, are key to achieving better oral health and overall well-being.
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