Knowledge of Medical Practitioners about Periodontal Diseases and Its Impact on Overall Health: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Periodontal disease is defined as an inflammation of the gums that may result in loss of the tissues holding the teeth in its place. The signs and symptoms include red and/or swollen gums, bleeding gums, halitosis or in severe cases, loosening of teeth. Periodontal diseases act as a risk factor for several health conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and it can even result in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, in this study, we aim to assess the knowledge of medical practitioners regarding periodontal diseases and its impact on overall health. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study that included 100 medical practitioners working in the Combined Military Hospital Lahore, Pakistan. RESULTS In our study, 83.0% participants knew the definition of periodontal disease; 7.0% of the participants responded that they take their patient's periodontal history; 26.0% screened their patients for gums related problems while 87.0% reported that they are comfortable in performing an oral examination. 80.0% of the participants agreed that periodontal disease can be a risk factor for diabetes; 73.0% said they believe that it can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes; 62.0% thought that it can result in cardiovascular diseases. CONCLUSION Most of the participants in our study had a considerable amount of knowledge about periodontal diseases. However, it is important to stress the value of taking a detailed periodontal history and screening patients for periodontal problems.