Prevalence and Patterns of Periodontal Diseases Among Patients Attending Dental Clinics in Al-Nasiriya City, Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Periodontal diseases have become a serious public health problem all over the world. The objective of this study was to evaluate the extent and severity of periodontal diseases among patients in Al-Nasiriya city and its association with some selected demographic and clinical variables, using the 2017 World Workshop classification of periodontal diseases. Methods A cross-sectional survey study was carried out on 2,243 adult (20-75 years) patients of both sexes from different central and peripheral districts of Al-Nasiriya city. The periodontal condition was assessed with the Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN) and conventional periodontal parameters, such as probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and clinical attachment level of loss (CAL). Measurements of the periodontium were performed in six sites around all teeth examined. Results The prevalence of periodontal diseases (gingival bleeding, calculus, and periodontal pockets) in the study cohort was very high. Gingivitis was identified in 330 (14.9%) patients, while periodontitis was present in 1,913 (85.1%). Clinically healthy periodontal tissues were present in only 194 cases (8.8%). Both prevalence and severity of periodontitis increased with age and were substantially associated with smoking. Discussion The current reorganized analysis confirms a substantial burden of periodontal disease in Al-Nasiriya city, characterized by age-related progression and significant associations with modifiable systemic and behavioral risk factors. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated preventive strategies tailored to the Iraqi population. Conclusion Periodontitis prevalence in adults of Al-Nasiriya city was high. Age and being a smoker are two host factors of great importance that affect periodontal health. These findings emphasize the necessity of further preventive strategies and public health programs for awareness and risk factor control of periodontal disease in this segment of society.