This cross-sectional study determined the periodontal status and its association with risk factors in a convenience sample of 588 subjects seen at the dental clinic of Guarulhos University from 1999 to 2003. To reach the study objectives, geographic, demographic and behavioral characteristics, as well as, oral and periodontal parameters were tabulated and analyzed using SPSS. Chi-square and Student's t tests determined significance (p < 0.05) of continuous and categorical variables. Pearson's correlation test correlated disease (PPD mean > 3mm) with risk (age, sex, smoking) and behavioral factors. Multivariate linear regression evaluated the association between risk factors and periodontal disease. The study population presented a mean age of 36.1 ± 14.5 years, and was primarily comprised women (72.1%), while smokers were minority (13.3%). The mean number of missing teeth and periodontal probing depth (PPD) were 5.7 ± 5.9 teeth and 2.2 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. The prevalence of PPD > 3.0mm was 13.5% and the regional distribution of the population following the same cut-off point was: center 2.0%, west zone 17.8%, east zone 38.0%, south zone 6.7%, and north zone 35.5%. The average indices for plaque and bleeding on probing were 75.3% and 34.1%, respectively. Periodontal status was correlated with age, smoking habits and presence of supragingival biofilm. However, the latter did not show association when entered on the multivariate analysis, in contrast with the others. The study population showed high levels of gingival inflammation and a low percentage of periodontal pockets. Periodontal status was associated with smoking habits and age.
Epidemiological studies; Periodontal diseases; Clinical record; Risk factors
