Epidemiological evolution of oral health in Argentina and Uruguay

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. To analyze the published epidemiological data on oral health in Argentina and Uruguay and relate them to the data published by the WHO (Report 2023-2030) for these two countries.

METHOD. Epidemiological data were collected from Argentina and Uruguay that assessed oral health according to WHO criteria and compared with data from the WHO Oral Health report for the Americas: prevalence: of primary and permanent tooth caries, periodontal disease, and the number of cases and mortality rate of oral cancer. Inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed journals.

RESULTS. WHO vs National Data. Uruguay: Caries prevalence in deciduous teeth 42.9% vs 53.6% and in permanent teeth=37.6 % vs 91-100%. Periodontal disease prevalence>5= 25% vs 30-48%. Edentulism: 29.5% vs 53.9%. Oral cancer, incidence rate (all ages): 2.4% vs 2.76-11.14%. Argentina: Caries prevalence in deciduous teeth 41% vs 65-85% and in permanent teeth 36.9% vs. 54.2-86% Periodontal disease prevalence >5= 18% vs 36 - 40.7%. Edentulism= 27.2% vs 50%, Oral cancer = 3.5% vs 4.8-6.7%

CONCLUSIONS: Oral health data in Uruguay and Argentina reveal a worrying reality that exceeds WHO estimates. The prevalence of oral diseases remains very high. This underscores the need for collaboration between government entities, scientists, and universities to develop effective strategies to address these challenges.