Epidemiology of periodontal diseases in adults from Latin America

Abstract

A decade has passed since we first reviewed the epidemiology of periodontal diseases in Latin America. At that time, lack of population-based studies was the norm and our conclusions were based on very limited evidence. The aim of the present comprehensive review was to update and expand our previous work by providing a broad overview of Latin America and its current social, economic and demographic status and by focusing on the epidemiology of periodontal diseases in Latin American adults published in the last 15 years. The amount of periodontal epidemiological data available has increased but is still restricted to a few countries only. The scope of the literature available has also broadened to include oral health-related quality of life and systemic interactions; however, most studies had methodological limitations that might have biased their results. In general, periodontitis was very prevalent, but severe periodontal destruction was localized. Besides being associated with well-established risk factors, periodontitis was associated with demographics and socio-economic factors in Latin American populations. To advance epidemiological knowledge, population-based cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, using appropriate methodologies, should be the future focus of the research agenda of researchers and public health planners in Latin American countries.

Efficacy of two soft-bristle toothbrushes in plaque removal: a randomized controlled trial

“…9 In 2010, consumption had practically doubled. 10 Importantly, however, increased consumption does not necessarily translate to better clinical results in terms of effective plaque control.…”

Psychological factors and his influence in the oral health of older people: A narrative review.

“…Its manifestations as gingival recession, mobility and tooth loss can affect quality of life 12 . In addition, there are chronic conditions associated with periodontal disease, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and smoking 11,13 . For this reason, it is important to have a holistic approach to treating periodontal disease.…”

“…In México, a study by Borges-Yañez et al 10 found that 28% of a sample of older people experienced moderate periodontitis (with attachment loss ≥4mm). In Brazil, a study conducted by the Ministry of Health defined that 3.3% of the adults between 65 and 74 years old had periodontal disease (with attachment loss ≥4mm) 11 . In summary, Latin America presents a high prevalence of periodontal disease, and the most complicated factor is that it tends to grow consistently through the years in this region 11 .…”

Relationship between body mass index, bone mineral density, and oral hygiene with periodontal disease in a Mexican elderly group.

“…Its importance lies in the fact that increased adipocytes increase in turn certain inflammatory mediators leading to a state that tends to systemic inflammation. This causes a localized decrease in blood flow and affects immune response 2,5,6 . It may be a risk factor for the development of PD, particularly in older adults, since it is possible to associate PD with low serum levels of micronutrients.…”

“…Periodontal disease (PD) is characterized by the destruction of connective tissue and alveolar bone after an inflammatory response of the host to infection by pathogens that can lead to tooth loss, affecting more than 80% of the population worldwide. Its multifactorial etiologic character includes different risk factors such as obesity and osteoporosis, which can contribute to its emergence and prevalence [2][3][4][5][6] .…”