More than half of Quebecers over 65 have no teeth

May 27 2004

More than half of Quebecers over 65 have no teeth. This is a problem of major proportions, given that medical studies indicate that tooth loss has a negative impact on diet and health.

According to researchers from McGill's Faculty of Dentistry and the McGill University Health Centre, implant dentures may be the solution. Research has shown that people who wear simple implant dentures report that they are very satisfied, that their quality of life is much improved, and that they would not go back to wearing conventional dentures.

Why? Implant dentures are more comfortable and help toothless Canadians chew better. Jocelyne Feine, a professor at McGill's Faculty of Dentistry, and Jose Morais, of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, have published preliminary data showing that people who wear simple implant dentures greatly improve their nutritional intake.

Doctors Feine and Morais and their research team are now seeking volunteers aged 65 and over to participate in a clinical trial, which is supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The scientists want to further examine if enhanced ability to chew leads to improved nutrition and general health.

Media wishing to interview the team about their research should contact Sylvain-Jacques Desjardins, communications officer, at 514-398-6752. Members of the public who are interested in joining the clinical trial or require more information should call research assistant Nicolas Drolet at 514-398-2021.