A significant proportion of Sri Lankans, particularly children and older adults, are affected by poor oral health, according to findings from national surveys.

Data from the most recent National Oral Health Survey show that 11% of adults aged 65–74 have lost all their teeth, while 63% of five-year-old children suffer from tooth decay. Additionally, 50% of adults are affected by gum disease.

A 2023 survey conducted by the Family Health Bureau, which assessed the oral health of students in Grades 1, 4, and 7, found that 57.3% of Grade 1 students were experiencing tooth decay.

Further, a 2022 study among 12-year-old children in the Colombo district revealed that 30% had decay in their first permanent molar.

Globally, oral diseases are recognised as a major non-communicable disease, with nearly 3.47 billion people affected—almost half the world’s population.

These findings were presented by Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Ananda Ratnayake of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura at a conference held to mark World Oral Health Day, which falls on 20 March.

Consultant Dental Surgeon Dr. Nilantha Ratnayake of the Maharagama Dental Institute emphasised that maintaining oral health requires the use of fluoride toothpaste, brushing teeth twice daily, reducing excessive sugar intake, and avoiding betel chewing products containing lime, tobacco, and areca nut.

Meanwhile, the fifth National Oral Health Survey, conducted after a gap of 10 years, commenced on 10 March and is expected to provide updated data on the country’s current oral health status.