Periodontal conditions and treatment needs (CPITN) in a worker population in Araraquara, SP, Brazil

This research was carried out to assess the periodontal conditions and treatment needs in a worker population at Sugar and Alcohol Refineries in Araraquara, SP, Brazil. A sample of 528 workers aged 18-64 years was examined by one examiner, previously trained, using the CPITN. The results showed that calculus was the most frequently observed periodontal condition in the age groups 18-19, 20-24, 25-29 and 30-34. In the age groups 35-44 and 45-64, the periodontal condition most frequently observed was shallow pockets. The analysis of the results showed that treating all conditions in all persons would demand an amount of care that could not be provided by any dental service. Therefore, the priority should be based on population strategy and primary prevention programmes to benefit the periodontal health of the majority of people.