Cross-national comparisons of the findings in the 6th German Oral Health Study (DMS • 6).

Overall, Germany showed a favorable caries profile compared to EU and OECD countries, but lost the leading position achieved in childhood and adolescence with increasing age. This finding suggests that the preventive gains made in early life were not sustained into adulthood owing to the absence of continuous measures. The relatively high prevalence of root caries in Germany is attributed to an intrinsically higher disease risk and greater tooth retention in adults and seniors. In contrast, the periodontal situation was less favorable, although methodologic differences between studies and the high rate of tooth retention must be considered in this context. Similarly, Germany's leading position regarding erosive tooth wear should be interpreted cautiously because of limited data. MIH prevalence was consistent with the international average, and clarification of its etiology is warranted for targeted prevention. The association between GDP per capita and caries underscores the influence of socioeconomic factors and the importance of long-term population-level preventive strategies. (Quintessence Int 2026;57(Suppl): S142-S151; doi: 10.3290/j.qi.b6955513).