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NIH National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) Home page
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Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults.

Overall, the prevalence of both moderate and severe periodontal disease in adults and seniors has decreased from the early 1970s. In spite of this improvement, significant disparities remain in some population groups.

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has been an important source of information on oral health and dental care in the United States since the early 1970s. Click on the link below for the most recent periodontal disease statistics, which are from the 2009-2014 NHANES survey.

By Specific Group

  • Gum Disease Statistics for Adults Age 30 Years or Older
Last Reviewed
August 2021
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