The periodontal status of 1688 inhabitants of eastern Germany (former GDR) was investigated between July 1991 and March 1992, using the CPITN. The results show that only 1.4% of those examined have a healthy periodontal apparatus, whereas 40.1% had some signs of severe periodontitis (CPITN 4). This implies a very high therapy requirement in all age-groups, with 93.1% of 15- to 19-year-olds in need of peridontal treatment (CPITN 1 + 2 + 3 + 4). A comparison between educational qualifications and frequency of brushing or routine dental checks reveals a better level of prophylaxis in the more educated classes. As expected, the CPITN code with good oral hygiene and regular dental checks was significantly lower than with poor oral hygiene and infrequent dental checks. The high prevalence of periodontal disease lends urgency to the development of an extensive prevention concept introduced in childhood.