Study of prevalence, severity and risk factors of periodontal disease in a Portuguese population

Abstract

Periodontal disease is a common worldwide oral inflammation/infection affecting tissues that surround and support teeth. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, extent and severity of periodontal diseases and its risk factors, according to the most recent periodontal classification, in an adult population of Northern Portugal. This observational study collected data from clinical records of patients who attended the University Clinic of Gandra between April 2021 and April 2022. Of a total of 941 patients included, 457 (48.6%) had periodontitis, 253 (26.9%) had gingivitis and the remaining 231 (24.5%) were healthy patients. The prevalence of stage III severe periodontitis was 51.2%, more prevalent in males, and in the age group of 61–70 years. Gingivitis was more prevalent in females, and in the age group of 31–40 years; in both diseases, the most prevalent extension was the generalized one. Using a binary logistic regression, we observe a significant relation of the risk of periodontitis with age (<i>p</i> = 0.019; OR 1.033; 95% CI 1.005–1.062), tooth brushing (<i>p</i> = 0.002; OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.105–0.599) and dental flossing (<i>p</i> = 0.015; OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.09–0.768). This study revealed a high prevalence of periodontitis. Increased age, lack of tooth brushing and flossing were identified as potential risk factors for periodontitis in the investigated Portuguese population.