PERIODONTITIS AND ITS RELATED FACTORS AMONG PATIENTS PRESENTING TO AMINU KANO TEACHING HOSPITAL KANO DENTAL CENTRE

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is a chronic immuno- inflammatory condition associated with dysbiotic plaque biofilms resulting in the progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting structures. It is characterized by the loss of periodontal tissue support. Periodontitis is caused by a combination of factors including pathogenic bacteria, the body's inflammatory and immune responses, as well as various environmental and systemic risk factors. AIM: This study aimed at determining the prevalence of periodontitis and its related factors among patients presenting to the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Dental Center. OBJECTIVES : To ascertain the prevalence of periodontitis, determine its severity, extent and distribution as well as its rate of progression among patients presenting to the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Dental Centre. It also aimed to identify among the patients, factors that are significantly associated with the disease. RESULTS: The study participants consisted of 138 males (63.3%) and 80 females (36.7%), with age range 18-70 years. Half of the participants were civil servants and have attained tertiary level of education. Results revealed that 70% of the patients presented with periodontal disease, with 22.3% of them having periodontitis. The predominant presentation of periodontitis was generalized periodontitis, stage 2, grade B, which indicates moderate form of the disease. Factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI), level of education, medication and oral hygiene status were significantly associated with periodontitis severity and rate of progression, while no significant associations were found with age, smoking habits, or systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study underline the significant public health burden posed by periodontitis in the population attending the AKTH Dental Centre. The prevalence and severity of periodontitis point to the need for urgent public health interventions aimed at preventing and managing this disease. The significant associations between BMI, educational level, medication and oral hygiene status with the severity and progression of periodontitis emphasize the role of lifestyle factors and socio-economic determinants in the progression of the disease.