Knowledge Regarding Oral and Dental Health Maintenance Influences Tooth Loss in the Elderly

Abstract

Tooth loss remains a major dental and oral health problem among older adults, particularly those residing in community‑based health service settings. The high prevalence of tooth loss in this population affects essential physiological and psychosocial functions, including mastication, facial aesthetics, and speech articulation, which collectively diminish the overall quality of life of the elderly. Understanding the determinants of tooth loss, especially modifiable factors such as oral health knowledge, is crucial for designing effective and sustainable oral health promotion strategies. This study aimed to analyze the influence of knowledge regarding dental and oral health maintenance on tooth loss among elderly individuals at Posyandu Tunas Bangsa, Talunrejo Hamlet, Talunrejo Village, Bluluk District, Lamongan Regency. An observational analytic design with a cross‑sectional approach was employed. The study involved 56 elderly respondents selected using purposive sampling. Data collection consisted of a structured questionnaire assessing dental and oral health knowledge and an observation sheet documenting the degree of tooth loss. Data were analyzed using the Chi‑Square statistical test with a significance level of α = 0.05. The findings showed that most elderly participants had poor knowledge of dental and oral health, and the majority experienced moderate levels of tooth loss. Statistical analysis yielded a p‑value of 0.008 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant association between oral health knowledge and tooth loss. Elderly individuals with lower levels of knowledge were more likely to experience greater tooth loss compared to those with better knowledge. In conclusion, oral health knowledge significantly influences tooth loss among the elderly. These results highlight the importance of strengthening oral health literacy through continuous education, counseling, and community‑based health promotion programs. Improving knowledge and awareness may help reduce the burden of tooth loss and enhance the overall well‑being of older adults.

Keywords: knowledge; dental and oral health; tooth loss; elderly