Representative samples of women in different age groups in Gothenburg, Sweden, were examined by means of panoramic radiography in 1968-69 and in 1980-81. Edentulousness and number of remaining teeth were assessed from the radiographs. Data on socioeconomic conditions, educational background and dental care attendance were obtained from a questionnaire. Cross-sectional results showed that improvements in dental status had occurred irrespective of socioeconomic conditions and educational levels and that differences between groups had decreased over the 12-yr period. Dental care attendance was high in all socioeconomic groups, but differences noted in 1968-69 remained in 1980-81.