Evaluation of socioeconomic status, nutritional habits and periodontal disease status of patients applying to the department of periodontology

Aims: To analyze the socioeconomic status, nutritional habits and periodontal disease status of patients who applied to the periodontology clinic for treatment. Methods: 191 patients (149 female, 42 male) participated in the study. The diagnosis of periodontal disease was made according to the 2017 Periodontal Disease Classification. Using a survey, data on eating habits (using the Wilhom Index (WI) survey), Body-mass index (BMI), socioeconomic levels and education level were obtained. All data were analyzed. Results: It was observed that 61.3% of the patients were not university graduates, 27.7% had low income, 53% had unhealthy BMI, nutritional habits were at a moderate level. The prevalence of periodontal disease was 42.4% for gingivitis and 48.7% for periodontitis. According to periodontal disease diagnoses, a significant difference was observed in socioeconomic status, education level, WI score and BMI. Conclusion: In order to reduce the prevalence of periodontal disease and improve public health, comprehensive health policies and educational programs should be developed regarding socioeconomic status, education level, awareness of healthy nutrition and oral health.