Prevalence and severity of periodontitis in a high fluoride area in South Africa.

The prevalence of periodontal disease is widespread throughout the world. Its severity varies considerably and the factors responsible for this variation are not known. Although the effect of fluoride on the reduction of dental caries is well established, its effect on chronic inflammatory periodontal disease is obscure. In this investigation, the prevalence and severity of periodontitis in 71 adults residing in a high fluoride area (2-3 ppm) was studied. In spite of large amounts of plaque and the prevalence of severe gingivitis in these individuals, there was little evidence of periodontal destruction (mean probing depth = 2.5 mm; mean loss of attachment = 1.02 mm). The possible reasons for the resistance of this population to = 1.02 mm). The possible reasons for the resistance of this population to periodontitis are discussed.