Aim

To assess edentulism-free life expectancy (EFLE) and the related inequalities by sex and schooling among older Brazilian adults from 2006 to 2016.

Background

Tooth loss is related to shortened longevity and unhealthy life expectancy in old age.

Materials and Methods

The outcome of the study was EFLE, assessed by age, sex and schooling. EFLE was estimated using the Sullivan method, considering the years and proportion of remaining life and the prevalence of edentulism—assessed in the Health, Well-being, and Aging cohort study, as well as the official mortality data for adults aged 60 years or older living in São Paulo, Brazil.

Results

EFLE increased from 10.9 (95% CI: 10.4-11.5) to 13.8 (95% CI: 13.2-14.5) years, considering data from 2006 to 2016, among 60-year-old individuals. In relative terms, these individuals expected to live 50.7% (95% CI: 48.1-53.2) of their remaining life free of edentulism in 2006, while this expectation was 62.8% (95% CI: 60.0-65.6) in 2016. Within both years, women and the less educated had lower EFLE than men and the higher educated.

Conclusion

EFLE increased from 2006 to 2016. However, inequalities concerning sex and education remained significant, thereby highlighting the need to continuously address inequalities in tooth loss throughout life to contribute to a healthy ageing.