German Oral Health Study Highlights Gains in Cavity Prevention but Warns of Persistent Gum Disease Challenges

The sixth German Oral Health Study reveals significant progress in reducing cavities and tooth loss, but 14 million Germans still suffer from severe periodontal disease, posing risks to overall health.

• Cavity prevention efforts in Germany have led to a 90% reduction in cavities among children since the 1990s, with 78% of 12-year-olds now cavity-free.
• Adults aged 35-44 have seen a 50% drop in cavity prevalence since 1989, and tooth loss in this group is now rare, with most retaining nearly all their teeth.
• Only 5% of seniors aged 65-74 are completely toothless, an 80% decline since 1989, reflecting advances in preventative care and tooth-preserving treatments.
• Despite these improvements, around 14 million Germans suffer from severe periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of heart and circulatory conditions.
• Educational and socioeconomic disparities persist, with lower-income and less-educated groups facing higher rates of cavities and tooth loss.

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