[Periodontal atrophy and further findings in aging people]

In a group of 100 patients cared for in a dispensairy system ranging in age from 50 to 59 years with a total of 2122 teeth the following was found: 767 teeth with periodontal atrophy at the vestibulary side, 415 teeth with untreated defects of dental hard tissues in the region of the cemento-enamel-junction, 168 crowns, fillings and/or dental caries. Periodontal atrophy was not the cause of tooth loss; the treatment of secondary lesions could be a problem. As far as the possible etiological factors are concerned especially the exogenous factor toothbrushing could be influenced. An effective brushing technique is recommended.