Tooth loss is a major problem worldwide that threatens both the physical and psychological health of the affected individual. A recent Harvard School of Dental Medicine study attempted to develop algorithms that could more accurately identify individuals who were at a higher risk of developing tooth loss than through clinical examinations alone.
Impact of Tooth Loss
People can lose their teeth through a variety of conditions and experiences. Many people have their teeth knocked out while participating in sports activities, while others may lose their teeth in vehicular accidents.
The most common way that people lose teeth, however, is through tooth decay and periodontal disease. If a person does not keep up with proper dental hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, they are at a greater risk of developing conditions that can eventually threaten the loss of their teeth.
Periodontitis is the most severe form of periodontal disease. At this stage, the condition is considered to be irreversible. The patient must receive ongoing professional dental treatments to save their teeth. It is much preferable, however, for susceptible individuals to receive a diagnosis when the condition is in the form called gingivitis, which is reversible.
Harvard Study
The Harvard study followed almost 12,000 individuals to develop a set of data that was used for the creation of five unique algorithms. These algorithms took into account factors like social-economic status, general health condition, and education levels of the studied individuals.
The early results of the study suggest that algorithms taking these factors into account are at least as successful as clinical examinations in isolating individuals most at risk for experiencing tooth loss.
The goal of the study is to use these algorithms as a method of predicting susceptible individuals, allowing them to receive an early diagnosis and treatment for their condition so that they can keep their natural teeth.
Utilizing the Algorithms
One aspect of the study that the researchers highlighted was the fact that the algorithms were developed to provide a risk assessment without the patient having a dental examination. However, those who were deemed most susceptible to tooth loss are still advised to have an actual physical examination performed.
The results of the Harvard study highlighted the critical importance of various socioeconomic factors that go beyond conventional clinical indicators. In fact, the researchers have suggested that their algorithms are more effective in predicting tooth loss than conventional clinical examinations.
In addition to the Harvard School of Dental Medicine’s participation, researchers from the University of Otago Faculty of Dentistry in New Zealand and the University of São Paulo in Brazil were involved.
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DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.