Published in PLOS One on 2026-06-01, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Folahanmi Tomiwa Akinsolu, Olunike Rebecca Abodunrin, Abel Chukwuemeka, Mobolaji Timothy Olagunju, Ifeoluwa Eunice Adewole, Abideen Olurotimi Salako, George Uchenna Eleje, Adebola Oluyemisi Ehizele, Joanne Lusher, Foluso Owotade, Oliver Chukwujekwu Ezechi, Morẹ́nikẹ́ Oluwátóyìn Foláyan, Yolanda Malele-Kolisa, Ashish Wasudeo Khobragade
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0349112
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
The national prevalence of dental caries in Nigeria is currently unknown. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the prevalence of dental caries in the primary, mixed and permanent dentition among residents in urban, rural and semi-urban Nigeria.
A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL and Embase databases and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2001 and December 2023 reporting the prevalence of dental caries in Nigeria. The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022362019) and conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Data extracted included study design, sample size, age of participants, and study location. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled prevalence.
A total of 1,010 records were identified, of which 52 studies were included in the systematic review and 35 were eligible for meta-analysis. Most studies were conducted in Southwestern Nigeria. The overall pooled prevalence of dental caries in Nigeria was 17% (95% CI: 14%–21%; I² = 97%). The pooled prevalence was 16% (95% CI: 10%–24%; I² = 98%) in primary dentition, 16% (95% CI: 11%–23%; I² = 97%) in mixed dentition, and 20% (95% CI: 16%–26%; I² = 96%) in permanent dentition. By setting, the pooled prevalence was 22% (95% CI: 7%–52%; I² = 98%) in rural areas, 17% (95% CI: 14%–22%; I² = 97%) in semi-urban areas, and 14% (95% CI: 6%–29%; I² = 98%) in urban areas. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across studies.
Dental caries remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, affecting approximately one in five individuals. Although variations were observed across dentition types and geographic settings, substantial heterogeneity indicates diverse epidemiological contexts across the country. Strengthened preventive strategies and improved access to oral healthcare services are needed to address the burden of dental caries nationwide.
Introduction
Dental caries is a worldwide health issue [1–4], affecting approximately 2.3 billion people with caries in permanent teeth and 514 million children with caries in primary teeth worldwide [2]. Dental caries represent a lifelong health burden, beginning in childhood and potentially persisting into adulthood if untreated [3]. Among children, dental caries is one of the most common conditions affecting the deciduous dentition [5,6], and globally, approximately 34% of the population has untreated cavities in permanent teeth [2]. These figures underscore the need for coordinated global responses tailored to context-specific risk factors and health system capacities.
The burden of dental caries is particularly concerning in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where prevalence remains high and continues to increase [4,7]. Many LMICs face significant challenges, including limited access to dental care, inadequate resources, and disparities in oral health education [8,9]. Untreated dental caries has far-reaching consequences for health and well-being. It is associated with pain, difficulty chewing, and dietary restrictions, which may contribute to nutritional deficiencies [10–16]. Beyond physical health, dental caries also has psychosocial implications, including social stigma, reduced self-esteem, social withdrawal, and poorer mental health outcomes [17–19]. The economic burden is substantial as well, encompassing treatment costs, missed workdays, and reduced productivity [20]. These challenges are compounded in settings with limited oral health insurance coverage [4,21], low awareness of preventive oral healthcare [22], and a high prevalence of poor mental health and reduced quality of life [23].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider public health desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Folahanmi Tomiwa Akinsolu, Olunike Rebecca Abodunrin, Abel Chukwuemeka, Mobolaji Timothy Olagunju, Ifeoluwa Eunice Adewole, Abideen Olurotimi Salako, George Uchenna Eleje, Adebola Oluyemisi Ehizele, Joanne Lusher, Foluso Owotade, Oliver Chukwujekwu Ezechi, Morẹ́nikẹ́ Oluwátóyìn Foláyan, Yolanda Malele-Kolisa, Ashish Wasudeo Khobragade. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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