ABSTRACT
Background: Information about the distribution patterns of periodontal disease and the possible existence ofhigh-risk groups among adult population in Jazan region is scarce. Aims: This study was designed to explorethe periodontal status and the effects of socio-demographic characteristics and habits among adult populationliving in Jazan region, Saudi Arabia (SA). Materials and methods: This work was a cross-sectional studyconducted among 204 individuals. This population was composed of 172 males and 32 females with a mean ageof 43.9 years. Structured questionnaire, which included general health status and possible risk factors forperiodontal disease, was used for sampling. Clinical periodontal examination was carried out using the schemeused by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Data was analyzed using Statistical Packagefor Social Sciences software version 20. Results: Approximately 46.1% of population presented moderatepocket depths. The clinical attachment loss of ≤4 mm was 57.8%, and the fair oral hygiene was 40.2%. Theeffects of khat chewing, shammah dipping, and smoking on moderate pocketing were 50%, 47.7%, and 41.9%,respectively. The attachment losses of ≤4 mm were high in khat chewers, shammah dippers, and smokers at63.1%, 68.8%, and 50.1%, respectively. The average poor oral hygiene among groups was high at 53.3%.Severe pocket depth and poor oral hygiene were significantly high among old age groups at 22.2% and 66.7%,respectively. Females showed significantly (p=0.05) higher mild gingivitis and better oral hygiene of 65.7% and68.8%, respectively, compared with those of males. Conclusion: The prevalence of periodontal disease is highdue to associated risk factors, including khat chewing, smoking, and poor oral hygiene. The elderly age groupshowed high levels of periodontal pocketing, attachment loss, and poor oral hygiene. Females also presentedbetter oral hygiene and periodontal health than those of males.