Periodontal Diseases in the U.S. In 1981: Prevalence, Severity, Extent, and Role in Tooth Mortality

Prevalence, severity, and extent of periodontal diseases as well as the role of periodontal diseases in tooth mortality are described for persons 19 years and older in the U.S. in 1981. The data were collected with a household probability sample of non-institutionalized persons living in the contiguous 48 states. Plaque and calculus scores were collected for six index teeth. All permanent teeth present and capable of being assessed were scored for gingivitis; pocket depths were measured on the mesial of each tooth with a periodontal probe. Examinations were conducted by trained dentists calibrated on specific criteria. Only 15% of persons in the U.S. in 1981 were free from any sign of periodontal diseases. Periodontitis (pockets greater than or equal to 4 mm) affected approximately 36% of the population. Advanced periodontitis (pockets greater than or equal to 6 mm) was present in 8% of the population and was usually found on only one or two teeth when present. End-stage periodontal destruction requiring extraction of teeth was found in only 4% of all persons while less than 20% of all missing teeth were listed as missing due to periodontal disease.