Trends in caries and periodontal health epidemiology in Europe.

The overall picture for caries and periodontal disease in Europe has improved over the last years. A very marked decline in caries prevalence was seen in children and adolescents. According to the DMF-figures the caries prevalence in adults and seniors has not declined as rapidly. Yet also in this age group there is in many countries a positive effect of a more preventive based dentistry detectable. The number of edentulous adults in Europe has also been declining considerably. However, of concern is the increased risk for root surface caries in the remaining teeth. Advanced periodontal disease is seen in around 20 percent of the adults and more than 30 percent in seniors. Changes in the prevalence of periodontitis are more difficult to assess because the treatment approach and the interest of patients retaining their teeth have also changed.