Prevalence of periodontal disease in special needs patients at APAE-PF/RS and the effect of local prevention programs

Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease and the efficiency of oral health programs in patients with special needs under treatment at APAE/ PF-RS (Association of Parents and Friends of Special Needs Individuals - Passo Fundo/RS). Methods: The periodontal condition of 109 patients was evaluated through clinical examination by two undergraduate students calibrated for the Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) index. The data collected were analyzed by SPSS 15.0 for Windows focusing on qualitative research. A descriptive analysis of data (percentile, frequency, mean and standard deviation) was performed, as well as statistical analysis by the chi-square at 5% significance level, and Pearson’s t-test to verify the correlation of the variables age, gender, handicap level and PSR index. Results: Age was a significant factor for PSR1, PSR2, PSR4 and PSR5, where younger patients showed better periodontal health than older ones; however, gender and handicap level did not show significant differences when correlated with the PSR. The patients presented prevalence of periodontal health in the majority of sextants, followed by gingivitis. Few patients showed more severe degrees of periodontal disease. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the patients had acceptable oral hygiene, and low prevalence of gingivitis and periodontitis, suggesting that the program of prevention and dental care adopted at the facility was efficient and may represent a model for periodontal health care for patients in other institutions and towns.