Tooth loss, prosthetic status, and prosthodontic treatment needs of an Indian fishing community

Background: The disadvantaged communities are often susceptible to poor oral health due to low incomes, lack of awareness, and low health-care utilization. Untreated dental diseases can lead to loss of teeth which may result in unmet prosthodontic needs. The present study assessed tooth loss, prosthetic status, and treatment needs of a fishing community in Mangalore, India. Materials and Methods: Oral examination of 400 individuals from a fishing community was done through a house-to-house cross-sectional survey using the World Health Organization oral health assessment form 1997. Data on demography, personal habits, and dental utilization were collected using a questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of tooth loss was 43%, and the mean number of missing teeth was 2.32 ± 5.21. More tooth loss was observed in older age groups and smokers. About 97% of the participants did not use any prosthesis, whereas it was needed in 23% in the maxillary arch and 33% in the mandibular arch. Prosthetic need was higher in older age groups. Majority of the participants had never visited a dentist before. Conclusions: Tooth loss was associated with age and smoking in this population. Utilization of oral health services was low, and prosthetic need was high. Targeted health promotion is recommended to prevent tooth loss and improve prosthetic status.