Oral Diseases Affecting 3.7bn People Worldwide, Says Varsity Don

A professor of Restorative Dentistry at the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, Ondo State, Prof Adolphus Loto, has revealed that oral health diseases are negatively impacting nearly 3.7 billion people worldwide, accounting for about 45 per cent of the global population.

Speaking during UNIMED’s 11th inaugural lecture titled “Restoring Health to Dentally Afflicted Patients: The Role of a Restorative Dentist as a Jack of All Trades and Master of All,” Loto described restorative dentists as versatile professionals blending biology, materials science, technology and compassion to heal oral conditions.

He explained that restorative dentists act as diagnosticians, periodontists, endodontists, educators, technologists, craftsmen, artists, scientists, humanitarians and healers – reflecting the multifaceted nature of their role.

The report highlighted that approximately 2.5 billion people suffer from dental caries (tooth decay affecting permanent teeth), which is the most common health problem worldwide.

Additionally, Loto hinted that between 1 and 1.1 billion people endure severe periodontal (gum) disease, while total tooth loss remains widespread, especially among older adults.
He also noted that 514 million children have dental caries in their primary teeth.

The professor pointed out that the burden of oral diseases is most severe in low- and middle-income countries, where about 40 to 45 per cent of the African population is affected.

He also cited estimates that the global economic impact of major oral conditions – including healthcare costs and lost productivity – reaches around US$710 billion.

Prof Loto, however, emphasised the restorative dentist’s vital role as a “jack of all trades and master of all,” serving as a beacon of hope for millions suffering from dental afflictions globally.