Fact 2: How Common is Tooth Decay?
The prevalence of tooth decay is something that might surprise many. It’s a global phenomenon, impacting millions of individuals across age groups, ethnicities, and geographies. Given its widespread nature, understanding its prevalence becomes crucial in understanding the gravity of the situation.
Statistics from global health bodies paint a clear picture. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a staggering 2.3 billion individuals suffer from cavities in their permanent teeth. That’s nearly one-third of the global population. Furthermore, caries of primary teeth (or baby teeth) affect almost 530 million children worldwide.
Several reasons contribute to its widespread nature. Socio-economic factors, lack of awareness about dental hygiene, limited access to dental care facilities in many regions, and evolving dietary habits, especially the increased consumption of processed foods, play a significant role. The cultural normalization of sugary foods and drinks in various societies further compounds the problem.
Moreover, certain communities with limited access to fluoride, either through water or dental products, see a higher prevalence. Fluoride is known to be a potent weapon against tooth decay, and its absence can indeed lead to a spike in cases. (2)
