Autopercepción de enfermedad periodontal en personal militar de la Quinta Brigada Batallón De Infantería Capitán Antonio Ricaurte

Abstract

Background: Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting tissues of teeth and can lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly. Its relevance lies in its high prevalence and its association with systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's. Military personnel are subject to specific risk factors such as chronic stress, tobacco use, irregular work schedules, and difficulty accessing dental care, which could increase their vulnerability to periodontal disease. Objective: To determine self-perceptions of periodontal disease among military personnel of the Fifth Brigade, Captain Antonio Ricaurte Infantry Battalion (BIRIC) in Bucaramanga during the first half of 2025. Methodology: A cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study was conducted in a sample of 80 active military personnel, selected from a population of 100, belonging to the Fifth Brigade, Second Division, Antonio Ricaurte Battalion in Bucaramanga. A questionnaire was administered that included sociodemographic variables, hygiene habits, tobacco use, stress level, oral care knowledge and practices, and perception of periodontal disease. Data were entered in duplicate. Frequencies and proportions were calculated for qualitative variables and measures of central tendency for quantitative variables. Results: The median age was 23 (IQR 20-25); 85% were men; no history of systemic disease was reported. Regarding self-perception, 16.3% reported gingival bleeding when brushing, 7.5% reported inflammation, 11.2% reported frequent halitosis, 7.5% reported gingival recession, 3.7% reported tooth mobility, and 8.8% reported pain when chewing. Conclusions: Self-perception of periodontal disease in this military population revealed significant vulnerability, reflected in the presence of perceived symptoms such as gingival bleeding, halitosis, and recession, accompanied by poor use of oral hygiene products and poor attendance at dental checkups. The need to design and implement oral health education programs, prevention strategies, and timely access to dental services tailored to the military context is highlighted.