Periodontitis Prevalence and Severity in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Norwegian Circumpolar Communities

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence, severity, and extent of periodontitis in the adult population of circumpolar communities in Norway using data from the Tromstannen-Oral Health in Northern Norway study.

Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, data were collected from a randomized population sample (aged 20 to 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 were measured at six sites per tooth. Radiographic bone loss (BL) was examined using orthopantomograms.

Results: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology case definitions, 49.5% of participants had periodontitis, and 9.1% had severe periodontitis. Periodontitis prevalence and severity increased with age. Extent of BL and PD ≥4 mm also increased with age, but more rapidly and to a greater extent for BL. 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.

Keywords: Alveolar bone loss; arctic regions; dental health surveys; epidemiology; periodontitis.