Periodontal conditions among employed adults in Spain

To assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal conditions among a representative sample of employed adults in Spain.

A national cross-sectional study was conducted during 2008-2011. Periodontal status of 5130 workers, stratified by gender, age and occupation, was assessed based on Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL), following the WHO criteria.

The percentage of subjects with periodontal pockets (CPI codes 3-4) was 38.4%, [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 36.4-40.5] increasing significantly in subjects ≥45 years; 13.7% (95% CI: 12.8-14.7) of workers showed CAL 4-5 mm, while 7.7% (95% CI: 7.0-8.5) showed CAL ≥6 mm, again increasing significantly in the population ≥45 years. Prevalence of worse periodontal conditions was significantly higher in male workers, in subjects with primary school education and lower income, and in smokers and former smokers. The periodontal condition in young adults (35-44 years) was worse in comparison with those previously reported in Spanish national surveys.

Prevalence of destructive periodontal diseases was age-, gender-, education-, income- and tobacco smoking-related. Young adults showed worse periodontal conditions than has been previously reported in national surveys in Spain. It is suggested to include oral evaluation and preventive strategies in work-related medical check-ups.