Periodontitis is prevalent in the U.S. adult population. The results show that black and Mexican American males have poorer periodontal health than the rest of the U.S. adult population. Primary and secondary preventive measures should therefore be specifically targeted towards these groups.

Dental calculus, gingival bleeding, and gingival recession are common in the U.S. adult population. In addition to their unfavorable effect on esthetics and self-esteem, these conditions also are associated with destructive periodontal diseases and root caries. Appropriate measures to prevent or control these conditions are desirable, and this may also be effective in improving the oral health of the U.S. adult population.

No abstract