Factors related to changes in periodontal treatment need over a 1-year follow-up

Changes in Periodontal treatment need measured by the modified Periodontal Treatment Need System were investigated among employees of a Finnish paper mill. The investigation consisted of two clinical studies with a 1-year period between them, and three surveys to collect background information. After 1 year there was improvement in at least one jaw segment of 45% of the subjects and deterioration in 18%. Both improvement and deterioration were observed in another 10% of the subjects, and the remaining 27% had no changes in their dentulous jaw segments. The frequency of dental visits increase during the interim year. Changes in periodontal condition were in the main not significantly influenced by socioeconomic factors, dental health behavior, or dietary habits. Likewise, professional periodontal treatment did not have any significant effect on changes in periodontal condition.