Radiographic and clinical examination of periodontal status of first molars in 15-16-year-old Danish schoolchildren.

The prevalence of alveolar bone loss was investigated in 2813, 15- and 16-year-old Danish schoolchildren using bitewing radiographs. The interproximal spaces of the mesial and distal aspects of the first molar teeth were examined. Only defects with depths of more than 2 mm were considered periodontal bone loss. Radiographic evidence of bone resorption was found in 48 children. When evaluated clinically, 42 out of the 48 children with radiographic signs of bone loss demonstrated clinical loss of attachment. Only four children (0.1%) had the characteristic radiographic features of juvenile periodontitis. Loss of attachment of more than 2 mm was observed in these children.