Authors : Mirjana Ambaroska Talevska; Radmila Dimovska; Cena Dimova

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3wz3he6f

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3efsv5rm

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul1237

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Total edentulism (complete loss of natural teeth or complete toothlessness) represents the final stage of oral diseases and an important public health problem that affects an individual’s quality of life, nutrition, speech, aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being. Despite advances in preventive dentistry and modern therapeutic approaches, edentulism remains prevalent, particularly among the elderly population and in countries with lower socioeconomic development. According to the latest global estimates, more than 350 million people worldwide live with total edentulism, with the highest prevalence observed among individuals older than 65 years. This paper aims to present contemporary epidemiological characteristics of total edentulism worldwide and in the Republic of North Macedonia, including an analysis of prevalence, risk factors, and future trends. Available data indicate that in 2021, more than 353 million people worldwide were completely edentulous, with a global age-standardized prevalence of 4.11%. The highest prevalence was recorded among older adults, women, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status. In North Macedonia, recent national epidemiological studies are lacking; however, available regional data indicate a significant presence of total edentulism among individuals over 65 years of age. Population ageing will continue to represent an important factor contributing to the persistence of a high burden of this condition.

Keywords : Total Edentulism, Tooth Loss, Epidemiology, Prevalence, Oral Health.

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