Epidemiology of periodontal status in dentate adults in France, 2002-2003

Few recent nationwide studies of the periodontal landscape in European countries have been developed from the point of view of attachment loss and pocket depth. Decision makers are not always in a position to estimate the burden of periodontal disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and the oral distribution of periodontal status among dentate adults in the general population of France.

In 2002-2003, a National Periodontal and Systemic Examination Survey was organized to a stratified quota sample of 2144 adults, aged 35-64 years, nationwide. Participants with six or more teeth were selected from the Health Examination Centers of the National Health Insurance. Measurement of periodontal health was assessed by clinical attachment level and probing depth.

A total of 95.40% and 82.23% of adults were found to have clinical attachment loss and periodontal pockets, respectively. Population prevalence estimates indicated that loss of attachment > or = 5 mm is 46.68% and probing depth (> 5 mm) is 10.21%. However, clinical attachment loss of > or = 5 mm occurred in only 0.88 sites in an individual. Periodontal depth pocket generalized forms were as follows: 78% slight, 18% moderate and 4% severe. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed significant differences of attachment loss values between types of tooth (molar, incisors, canines, or premolars).

Based on the International Classification of Periodontal Diseases, approximately 50% of adults in France may suffer from a severe attachment loss problem. Periodontal pockets are an uncommon condition in France. Significant differences in the prevalence of loss of attachment and probing depth with respect to location of attack have implications in the purchase and development of screening and treatment services.