Factors influencing tooth loss over 9–11 years in young individuals with periodontitis

Background Herein, we aimed to identify factors associated with tooth loss over a 9‐ to 11‐year period in young individuals with periodontitis, with a specific focus on the impact of patient compliance. The secondary outcome was to identify factors associated with discontinuation of active periodontal treatment. Methods This retrospective register‐based cohort study included 446 patients under the age of 36, diagnosed with periodontitis at 2 periodontal clinics, between 2003 and 2009. Variables were collected from digital dental records combined with 2 national health registers. The follow‐up period was between 2009 and 2019. Negative binomial and logistic regression analyses identified factors significantly associated with tooth loss and discontinuation of periodontal treatment. Results The majority of patients had lost none or maximum of 3 teeth due to periodontitis, while 3.6% had lost ≥ 10 teeth. The mean number of teeth lost due to periodontitis was 1.3 (range 0–26). Generalized periodontitis, stage IV, low level of education, smoking, and discontinuation of active periodontal treatment (APT) were significantly correlated with tooth loss. The variables periodontal stage, low level of education together with low income were correlated to discontinuation of APT. Conclusions In this register‐based study, discontinuation of APT, severe periodontal disease, smoking, and low level of education increased the risk for tooth loss. Additionally, low education level, low income, and severe periodontal disease were also significantly associated with discontinuation of APT. Plain Language Summary There are few studies focusing on tooth loss in young individuals with periodontitis. To increase knowledge on this issue, this register‐based study focused on 446 individuals who were younger than 36 years of age at time of their periodontal diagnosis. During a follow‐up period from 2009 to 2019, most individuals lost few or no teeth, while a minority accounted for most of the tooth losses. Patients with a generalized severe periodontal disease, low educational level, and who smoked were at the highest risk of tooth loss. Additionally, interruption of periodontal treatment was observed to be more common in patients with severe disease.