Recent findings from the India Dental Report 2024, released by scanO, a leading AI-powered dental platform, paint a troubling picture of the country’s oral health. The report reveals that the average Indian grapples with six distinct dental diseases, with dental stains, tooth decay, and tooth attrition topping the list.
According to the report, which draws on data collected over the past year, 64% of Indians suffer from dental stains, 48% from tooth decay, and 46% from tooth attrition. These common oral health issues are particularly pronounced in states like Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Karnataka, highlighting regional disparities in dental care across the nation.
Dental Stains: A Widespread Concern
The most prevalent issue identified in the report is dental stains, which affect a staggering 64% of the population. These stains are often the result of dietary habits, such as frequent consumption of tea, coffee, and turmeric-based foods, all of which are staples in Indian cuisine. Smoking and chewing betel nuts further exacerbate the problem, leading to persistent discoloration.
While urban areas are seeing a rise in cosmetic dental solutions to tackle these stains, rural and semi-urban regions often experience delays in seeking care. Limited access to dental services, coupled with fear and lack of awareness, prevents many from addressing the issue in a timely manner.
Tooth Decay: A Silent Epidemic
Tooth decay is another major concern, with nearly half of India’s population—48%—suffering from this condition. It begins when plaque builds up in the grooves of teeth, leading to cavities that are often not noticed until they have reached more severe stages. Poor oral hygiene, combined with a high sugar diet, particularly among children and young adults, contributes to this widespread issue. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, and ultimately tooth loss.
The high prevalence of tooth decay underscores the importance of early detection and regular dental visits, as neglected cavities can evolve into more serious health complications.
Attrition: A Growing Problem in Urban Areas
Attrition, or the erosion of tooth enamel, affects 46% of individuals, particularly in urban centers. This condition can arise from stress-induced teeth grinding, misalignment of teeth, or poor dietary habits. Urban populations, where stress-related clenching is more common, are particularly susceptible to this issue. Attrition often progresses without noticeable symptoms, leading to tooth sensitivity, shortened teeth, and, in more severe cases, chronic pain.
Dr. Vidhi Bhanushali, CEO and Co-founder of scanO, emphasized the importance of addressing these widespread dental concerns: “India’s oral health crisis is a stark reminder of how neglecting prevention can snowball into widespread public health challenges. Stains, tooth decay, and attrition may seem like surface-level issues, but they point to deeper systemic problems that affect productivity and overall quality of life.”
Beyond the Basics: Other Common Dental Issues
In addition to the three major dental diseases, Indians also face other common oral health problems, including tooth sensitivity, cracked or broken teeth, receding gums, root infections, enamel erosion, and yellowing teeth. These issues, though varied, contribute to the overall dental health burden in the country.
Dr. Bhanushali advocates for a comprehensive shift in the way India approaches oral healthcare. “To address these issues effectively, we need to break down barriers to accessibility, combat resistance to treatment, and improve awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and early intervention,” she said.
As the nation grapples with an escalating oral health crisis, experts are calling for systemic changes that prioritize prevention and better access to dental care, particularly for underserved populations. Without such changes, the current trends in dental diseases are likely to persist, affecting the health and well-being of millions across the country.
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