This article aims to review periodontal disease in Uruguay. International databases (PUBMED, SCOPUS, EBSCO, SciELO) were consulted. The search also included national sources (National Library of Dentistry, Documentation Center of the School of Dentistry, Ministry of Public Health, National Directorate of Health of the Armed Forces) which were searched manually. The studies found provided useful epidemiological information and allowed us to conduct a historical review of epidemiology concepts, etiopathogenesis and hegemonic currents in periodontics. Gingival disease is the most prevalent disease, while destructive periodontal conditions mainly affect adults. Age, geographical origin, social class and smoking are indicators strongly associated with these disorders. From the close reading of the articles collected we can make suggestions to be considered in future epidemiological surveys