Is tooth loss associated with depressive symptoms in older adults? Findings from the HRS

Edentulism (the loss of all of one’s upper and lower natural permanent teeth) may be distressing. Research is needed to identify risk factors for negative psychological outcomes (e.g., depression) among edentulous adults. The aim of this study is to examine the association between edentulism and depressive symptomology.Data from the Health and Retirement Study (2012 wave) were analyzed. The Health and Retirement Study is a biannual nationally representative study conducted by the University of Michigan and supported by the National Institute of Health. To be included in the sample respondents had to provide complete data on variables of interest. The sample included n= 18,884. Depressive symptoms were measured with a modified 7-item version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results showed the mean age was 67.2 years (SD 11.6), 42% male, and mean education level was 12.6 years. Logistic regression analyses showed edentulism (OR 1.11), health status (OR 3.65), ADL (OR 1.57), age (OR .98), black or African American (OR .95), male (OR .74), education (OR .95), separated/divorced (OR 1.71), widowed (OR 2.04), never married (OR 1.94).This study found an association between tooth loss and depressive symptoms. Despite the availability of dentures to adapt to tooth loss, many older adults suffer emotional consequences. This highlights the importance of preventive measures to protect and preserve tooth health in older adults. Another implication is the potential value of oral health providers screening for depressive symptoms in older patients experiencing edentulis