Association between Metabolic Syndrome and Tooth Loss among Korean Adults: Analysis of the 2007~2018 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between metabolic syndrome and tooth loss among adults aged 19 years and older using data from the nationally representative Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). Methods: A total of 49,468 adults aged 19 years and older who participated in the 2007∼2018 KNHANES were included in the final analysis. Chi-square tests were conducted to examine tooth loss according to sociodemographic factors and the presence of metabolic syndrome. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors influencing tooth loss. Results: Sociodemographic factors and components of metabolic syndrome were identified as potential risk factors for tooth loss. The prevalence of tooth loss was higher among individuals in older age groups, those with lower educational and income levels, those engaged in agricultural or fishery-related occupations, and those residing in rural areas (p＜0.001). Adults with metabolic syndrome exhibited a relatively higher prevalence of tooth loss (p＜0.001), with a 1.19-fold increased likelihood of tooth loss compared to those without metabolic syndrome (p＜0.001). Conclusion: Efforts are needed to develop oral health education programs and integrate systemic health management strategies aimed at improving oral health among adults with metabolic syndrome.