JAPAN: More Octogenarians Can Say, 'They're All My Own Teeth'

OSAKA (The Yomiuri Shimbun), June 4, 2006: The number of 80-year-olds with more than 20 teeth has drastically increased over the last six years, exceeding 20 percent of the total number of octogenarians questioned for the first time, according to a Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry's survey. The latest survey on teeth, which is conducted every six years, took place in November on 4,608 people across the nation over one year of age. The survey shows 21.1 percent of people aged between 80 and 84 have more than 20 teeth, up from 13 percent. The increase is noticeable in all age groups over 40, with a rise from 17.5 percent to 27.1 percent in people aged between 75 and 79, and up to 42.3 percent from 31.9 percent in those from 70 to 74 years old. The survey also revealed that 49.4 percent of respondents brush their teeth twice a day, while 21 percent do so three times or more. The standard number of teeth needed to chew almost all food without dentures is 20. Commenting on the results, an official said the campaign to preserve 20 teeth into old age has made people aware of the need to prevent caries and gum disease, while dental treatment that avoids extractions has become more popular. © The Yomiuri Shimbun