Tooth Decay Prevalent Among Most Malaysian Adults

MALAYSIA: According to the Health Ministry, a staggering 94.6% of Malaysian adults require some form of dental treatment, with tooth decay emerging as a primary concern. 

This revelation comes from the National Oral Health Survey of Adults conducted in 2022, involving over 16,000 individuals aged 15 and above.

Common Dental Health Problems

The Health Ministry highlighted tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer as the top three dental health issues among Malaysians. Poor oral hygiene practices, including inadequate tooth brushing and flossing, along with a high intake of free sugars, were identified as significant contributors to tooth decay.

Malaysian Dentists Shocked by State of Street Children’s Dental Health

Smoking, tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and chewing betel quid (sirih) were identified as major risk factors for gum disease and oral cancer. The ministry emphasized that betel quid contains the areca nut, classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Half of Malaysian adults require dental prostheses to replace missing or damaged teeth, with partial dentures being the most common need. Additionally, the survey revealed that the average Malaysian adult has 24 permanent teeth, falling short of the ideal 32, with one in 20 adults aged 35 and above having no teeth at all.

Lack of Regular Dental Check-ups

Despite the prevalence of dental issues, a significant portion of adults did not undergo regular dental check-ups, with 63% reporting no dental visit within a year. Seeking oral healthcare was primarily driven by experiencing dental problems.

Malaysia aims to become preferred healthcare destination

Experts have called for an expansion of oral health initiatives, particularly in underserved areas such as Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysian Dental Association president Dr. Mas Suryalis Ahmad urged the government to include dental care in initiatives like Peka B40, which caters to low socioeconomic groups. Additionally, she advocated for the expansion of water fluoridation programs across the country, citing its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay.

Addressing Dentist Shortages

While the number of dentists in Malaysia is expected to increase, concerns remain regarding the distribution of dental facilities. Dr. Mas Suryalis emphasized the need for more facilities in areas with limited access to dental services, urging the government to promote oral health and widen access to dental care initiatives.