Smoking, a weak predictor of periodontitis in older adults

Background: The impact of smoking habits on periodontal conditions in older subjects is poorly studied. Aims: To assess if a history of smoking is associated with chronic periodontitis and medical history in older subjects. Material and Methods: The medical and dental history was collected from 1084 subjects 60–75 years of age. Smoking history information was obtained from self‐reports. Periodontal variables [clinical probing depth (PD)5.0 mm, clinical attachment levels (CALs) 4.0 mm], and radiographic evidence of alveolar bone loss were assessed. Results: 60.5% had never smoked (NS), 32.0% were former smokers (FS) (mean smoke years: 26.1 years, SD±13.1), and 7.5% were current smokers (CS) (mean smoke years 38.0 years, (SD±12.1). The proportional distribution of CAL 4.0 mm differed significantly by smoking status (NS and CS groups) (mean difference: 12.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5–22.6, p20% bone loss) was 1.3 (p