Prevalence of Periodontal Diseases in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria

There has been a global pandemic of periodontal diseases with a rising prevalence worldwide. In Nigeria, reported cases of rising prevalence have occurred because of poor oral hygiene, and other related factors. This descriptive survey study was aimed at ascertaining the prevalence of periodontal diseases in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo state, Nigeria. The main instrument for data collection was a structured interview questionnaire bordering on biodata, economic status, oral hygiene, as well as dental care assessment. A sample of 500 was randomly selected from the population i.e males and females of ages between 6-55yeras (schooling and working population). Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency, percentage, histograms, and pie chart. Results showed that 470(94%) respondents have had one form of periodontal disease while 30(6%) never had it. Also pain and bleeding gums had 34.6% and 19.8% and as such the commonest pattern of periodontal disease in the populace. The disease was commoner amongst 16-25years age group i.e 128(27.2%) and there was also a male preponderance of 59.4% against the female of 40.6%.Sixmonthly dental check-up, and health education were recommended.