Tooth loss in adults is becoming less common, and the attitudes of patients and professionals towards it have changed dramatically over the last quarter of a century. This paper explores these changes, from the patient's perspective, in terms of psychological perspectives, aesthetics, function and the need or desire for tooth replacement. A second paper will examine the evidence available on the positional and functional changes following tooth loss.
Clinical relevance: Clinicians need to have an awareness of changes in disease patterns, trends in patient expectations and the demand for restorative interventions.