Prevalence of periodontal conditions among public-funded dental patients in Australia

Background: The aims of this study were to describe periodontal health status by gender, type of care, geographic location and age and to investigate associations of these factors with tooth loss. Methods: In 1995-96, state and territory dental services surveyed a random sample of 6,109 public-funded patients. Dentists recorded oral health status at the initial visit of a course of care, using written instructions but without formal calibration. Periodontal status was assessed using the community periodontal index of treatment needs. Results: Prevalence of periodontal conditions among dentate patients was higher among older, male, emergency and urban patients (chi (2); p<0.05). Age-specific edentulism was lower for male, emergency and urban patients (<chi>(2); p<0.05). Numbers of missing teeth were lower for younger, non-emergency and urban patients (Anova; p<0.05). Prevalence of periodontal pockets 6mm or more was associated with gender, type of care, geographic location, age and number of missing teeth (logistic regression; p<0.05). Conclusions: Prevalence of severe periodontal conditions was lower in 1995-96 compared with public-funded patients in 1984 and 1992-93, but prevalence of periodontal health remained lower than the general population in 1987-88. A survivor effect may result in lower recording of severe periodontal conditions among subgroups with higher tooth loss.