BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence, severity and extent of periodontitis in the adult population of circumpolar communities in Norway using data from the study Tromstannen - Oral Health in Northern Norway.
METHODS: In this cross-sectional survey, data were collected from a randomized population sample (20-79 years) in Northern Norway. Periodontal conditions were assessed for 1,911 dentate adults with a full-mouth periodontal examination. Probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BoP) were measured at six sites per tooth. Radiographic bone loss (BL) was examined using orthopantomograms.
RESULTS: According to the CDC/AAP case definition, 49.5% of participants had periodontitis and 9.1% had severe periodontitis. Periodontitis prevalence and severity increased with age. The extent of BL and PD ≥ 4 mm also increased with age, but more rapidly and to a greater extent for BL. The prevalence of periodontitis was higher among men and varied between urban and rural areas. Periodontitis prevalence was positively associated with smoking, lower levels of education and income.
CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a high burden of periodontitis among adults living in circumpolar communities in Norway. The results showed sociodemographic disparities regarding periodontitis, and highlights the importance of further investigation of factors influencing periodontal health.