Indians grapple with six dental diseases on average: India’s 2024 scanO dental recap

New Delhi: scanO, India’s leading AI-powered dentistry ecosystem, today released its India Dental Report for 2024. Based on platform data collected over the past year, the report highlights key oral health trends, revealing that the average Indian faces six dental diseases.

The report identifies dental stains (64%), tooth decay (48%), and tooth attrition (46%) as the most prevalent oral health issues across the country. States like Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Karnataka have the highest recorded cases, painting a concerning picture of the nation’s oral health.

The report shows that 64% of Indians are grappling with dental stains caused by common dietary habits and lifestyle choices. Tea, coffee, and turmeric-based dishes, staples in the Indian diet, contribute to persistent staining. Smoking and chewing betel nuts further compound the issue.

Urban populations increasingly seek cosmetic dental solutions to address stains, but many in rural and semi-urban areas delay care due to limited access, fear, or lack of awareness.

“India’s oral health crisis is a stark reminder of how neglecting prevention can snowball into widespread public health challenges,” said Dr. Vidhi Bhanushali, CEO and Co-founder, scanO. “Stains, tooth decay and attrition may seem like surface-level concerns, but they expose systemic gaps that stretch far beyond oral health, affecting productivity and overall quality of life. The road ahead demands a fundamental shift in how we approach healthcare—by breaking barriers of accessibility, resistance, and awareness. At scanO, we are unlocking a culture of prevention by leveraging AI diagnostics to bring care directly to people’s fingertips, whether through a mobile app or kiosks at their local dental clinics or in underserved regions. Prevention is the foundation step on which India’s smiles will thrive.”

Tooth decay, affecting 48% of Indians, is identified as the most widespread dental condition. It begins with plaque accumulation in pits and fissures, leading to cavities that often go unnoticed until severe stages. Poor oral hygiene and frequent sugar consumption are primary contributors, particularly among children and young adults. Left untreated, decay can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss, highlighting the importance of early detection and regular dental visits.

Attrition affects 46% of individuals, caused by enamel erosion due to dietary habits, stress-induced grinding, and misaligned teeth. Stress-related clenching, particularly in urban areas, is a growing contributor to this condition. Attrition often progresses silently, leading to sensitivity and shortened teeth. Severe cases can result in chronic pain and long-term damage if not addressed early.