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Periodontal diseases: epidemiology
1University of Göteborg, Department of Oral Microbiology, Sweden.
Annals of Periodontology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Epidemiological data on periodontal disease prevalence is challenging to interpret due to inconsistent methods. However, adult periodontitis is common, with smoking and diabetes identified as key risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Interpreting global periodontal disease trends is difficult due to inconsistent methodologies.
- Assessing periodontal disease solely by clinical attachment loss can inflate prevalence in older populations.
- Standardized full-mouth examinations are crucial for accurate epidemiological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiological landscape of periodontal diseases.
- To identify reliable risk factors and population-level prevalence.
- To discuss the systemic implications of periodontal infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing epidemiological data and studies on periodontal disease.
- Analysis of prevalence variations across different populations and age groups.
- Identification of established risk factors through multivariate analysis.
Main Results:
- Adult periodontitis is prevalent, though advanced stages affect a smaller percentage (10-15%).
- Smoking, specific subgingival microorganisms, and diabetes mellitus are confirmed risk factors.
- Periodontal infections are linked to increased risk of coronary heart disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Accurate assessment of periodontal disease requires consistent, comprehensive epidemiological methods.
- While adult periodontitis is common, severe forms are less frequent.
- Periodontal disease has potential systemic health consequences, including cardiovascular and developmental risks.