Has the prevalence of periodontitis changed during the last 30 years?

Aim: This paper reviews global trends in the change in prevalence of periodontitis over the last 30 years. Material and Methods: The epidemiology of periodontal disease is briefly reviewed together with the current classification system and the clinical and radiographic diagnostic methodology in periodontal disease. Results: This review identifies the very limited number of studies that provide prevalence data over time, and this data is discussed in comparison with those stemming from a few corresponding studies from countries outside Europe. Conclusions: The data indicate a possible trend of a lower prevalence of periodontitis in recent years.