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| about periodontal disease |
| In this column, we will reply to questions about periodontal disease, monthly. We hope you can learn correctly what periodontal disease in connection with your health is, and refer to it for your life. |
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| The 3rd time basic knowledge
of gum disease |
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Q3:How
many people suffer from periodontal diseases
in Japan?
A3:
According to the survey by Ministry of
Health, Labour and Welfare (The dental
problem survey in 1999), 79% of Japanese
people in ages 25-34 are suffering from
gum disease, periodontal disease (inflammation
gum/periodontitis). The rate is higher
for people in ages 35-44, in which 84%
are suffering from gum disease.
Leaflets and publications of dentistry
display the estimate prevalence rate periodontal
diseases in Japan at average of 35%. However,
since prevalence of gingivitis differs
greatly by age groups, we cannot say the
number is necessarily appropriate. Moreover,
the basis of the field survey of dental
problems, which Ministry of Health, Labour
and Welfare has conducted every 6 years
since 1957, differs in every survey taken
up to 1990's. Therefore, it is inadequate
to assess with the number shown in the
surveys conducted up to 1990's. Survey
criteria and measuring method have been
standardized since 1990's; therefore,
the survey results since 1990's can be
regarded as reliable data.
Prevalence rates of patient with 4mm or
more periodontal pockets are: 6% in ages
18-19, 36% in ages 30-44, and 58% in ages
45 and over. In ages 45 and over, the
incident rate is higher for men than for
women. These rates are estimated according
to the number of patients with 4mm periodontal
pockets. If we include patients with "bleeding
gums" and "having tartar", the prevalence
rate will be even higher.
Website of Ministry of Health, Labour
and Welfare
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