The burden of severe periodontitis in the United States: Insights from a population-based analysis

Severe periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and an important public health issue in the United States. However, data on its long-term burden and future trends remain limited. The authors evaluated the burden of severe periodontitis in the United States from 1990 through 2021 and projected its trajectory through 2050.

Data on severe periodontitis in the United States from 1990 through 2021 were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study to assess trends according to age, sex, and state. Joinpoint regression analysis, decomposition analysis, and a Bayesian age-period-cohort model were used to analyze past trends and project future burden through 2050.

Important age and sex differences were observed, with higher burden among male participants and those aged 50 through 64 years. Regional disparities were notable; New York and North Carolina had the highest age-standardized incidence rates and Nevada and Arizona had the fastest-growing burdens. Results of joinpoint regression analysis indicated a decline in burden since 2014. Results of decomposition analysis showed population growth and aging as major contributors to increased incidence. A stable burden is projected from 2022 through 2050.

The burden of severe periodontitis remains a public health concern, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in high-risk populations and regions.

Targeted strategies for aging populations and more equitable distribution of oral health care resources across states are essential to reduce the burden of severe periodontitis and promote oral health care equity in the United States.