The prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in Mainland China: Data from the Fourth National Oral Health Survey (2015-2016)

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate periodontal conditions in adults in mainland China based on data from the 4th National Oral Health Survey.

Materials and methods: Data of adult subjects (35- to 44-year-old group [N = 4409], 55- to 64-year-old group [N = 4622], and 65- to 74-year-old group [N = 4428]) were analysed. Demographic, socio-economic, personal habit, dental history, and health attitude data were obtained using a questionnaire. Periodontal condition was assessed using the standardized case definitions of the 2018 classification scheme. A multivariate analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between periodontitis severity and age, smoking status, gender, and region using generalized additive models after adjusting for confounders.

Results: The frequency of subjects with periodontitis was 52.8%, 69.3%, and 64.6% in the three age groups, respectively. The frequency of subjects with severe periodontitis (stage III or IV) was 10.6%, 37.3%, and 43.5% in the three age groups, respectively. The severity of periodontal disease was positively associated with age. Current and former smokers exhibited significantly greater disease severity than non-smokers after adjustment for confounders. No significant difference of severity was found between males and females.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of the study, the prevalence of periodontitis is very high among adults in mainland China. Periodontal status is associated with age and smoking status.

Keywords: Chinese adults; mainland China; periodontal condition; the 4th National Oral Health Survey.