Evaluation of the Periodontal Status of Rural Populations in the Ferlo (Senegal)

Introduction: Rural populations in the Ferlo, Senegal, are frequently studied, due to the environmental project, the “Great Green Wall,” that covers this area. Epidemiological studies on lifestyle suggested the risk of periodontal disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the periodontal status of the Widou populations in the Ferlo. Methods: This is descriptive cross-sectional study examined 300 men and women over 10 years of age living in the locality of Widou in the Ferlo. They were selected by simple random sampling. Data on demographic characteristics and periodontal status were collected using a modified WHO questionnaire about assessment of periodontal health. Univariate and bivariate analyses based on sextants and individuals as units of analysis, were used to describe and compare variables. The results were considered statistically significant when a p-value was ≤ 5%. Results: The low and average plaque levels involved 58-99% of the sample. Between 50% and 75% of those examined showed average and moderate gingival inflammation. More than half of the sample needed curettage, especially in the posterior sextants. The average values of loss of attachment and pocket depth respectively ranged from 1.03 (± 1.72) mm to 2.36 (± 2.45) mm and 3.59 (± 0.80) mm to 4.3 (± 1.02) mm. Severe periodontitis was significantly associated with sex, age group, marital status and occupation. Conclusion: These results suggest the need to set up functional dental health care structures near the populations and to provide a community-level integrated prevention program.