Prevalencia de enfermedad periodontal en adolescentes deportistas federados en el cantón Azogues, provincia del Cañar-2025.

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Periodontal diseases are inflammatory conditions that cause destruction of dental support tissues; however, studies in athletic populations remain scarce. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of periodontal disease in adolescent athletes aged 14–17 years using the Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) index. Method: A quantitative, observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted. Clinical variables were classified according to PSR codes (0 to 4, * and X). The analysis included statistical data, such as contingency tables, to establish relationships with periodontal disease. Statistical significance was determined using the chi-square test (χ²), considering a reliability level of p < 0.05. Results: A significant association was found between gender and the disease, with men being more affected (85.2%) compared to women (63.5%). The overall prevalence of periodontal disease was high (77.2%) among adolescent athletes. Competitive stress, systemic conditions, and poor oral hygiene habits could explain these trends. Fifteen-year-old adolescents showed the highest prevalence (89.5%). Regarding disease type, gingivitis predominated (71.3%), while 5.8% had periodontitis. Conclusion: The prevalence of periodontal disease in adolescent athletes was high, with gingivitis being the predominant condition and having a higher impact on males. Age and type of sport were not determining factors, although high-intensity disciplines showed a greater influence. Keywords: periodontal disease; adolescent; sports discipline; prevalence; oral health