Developing a Periodontal Risk Profile in Children Aged 10 to 14 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study

Hristina Ivanova Tankova

Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to assess periodontal risk and build a comprehensive risk profile among children aged10to14. Material and Methods: A total of 457 students were evaluated for factors such as oral hygiene, plaque levels, bleeding on probing, carious lesions, and orthodontic anomalies. For the assessment of plaque accumulation, the FMPS index was used, and for the evaluation of gingival status, BOP was utilized. Results: The findings revealed that poor oral hygiene and provoked gingival bleeding were the most common risk factors, while systemic conditions and reduced gingival width had minimal influence. These insights support the need for individualized preventive strategies and early habit formation to ensure long - term periodontal health. Conclusion: The assessment of the periodontal risk profile in children aged 10 - 14 is crucial for their future periodontal health, which can be achieved through an individualized approach and psychological influence in the development of healthy habits.

Keywords: periodontal risk, periodontal health in children, risk factors for gingival inflammation