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Distribution of Adolescents with Gingivitis and Dental Calculus in Jequitinhonha Valley, State of Minas Gerais, South-Eastern Brazil: A Study Using Geoprocessing

Fonseca EP, Guimarães Abreu MHN, Palmier AC, Ferreira EF and Vargas AMD

Periodontal disease studies in adolescents have shown considerable results. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of periodontal disease in adolescents living in Jequitinhonha Valley, State of Minas Gerais and South-Eastern Brazil. Materials and Methods: Geoprocessing technology was used to elaborate quantitative and qualitative coropletic maps, in which it was possible to associate colour grading with Communitary Periodontal Index (CPI) variables drawn from a previous cross-sectional study (UFMG’s Dentistry College, 2010). The study selected 13 cities of Jequitinhonha Valley, considering its population size and performance of oral health services. The survey was composed of 450 randomly selected adolescents ranging from 15 to 19 years, which were numbered considering both total and proportional teen population in each city. Data input was made on a graphic digital basis projecting the State area, using TerraView® computer software (4.2.1. version). Georeferencing of control points on the surface of the earth was made by the intersection of latitude and longitude coordinates (geocoding). Point and polygon vectorial model was used for data storage. Results and Discussion: The incorporation of geographical concepts by public health studies is justified by the understanding of geographical space as the place where social transformations occur both as the deleterious effects on public health related to social inequalities. Map patterns were the mosaic type and may indicate that there is not a single source for the results found. The worst periodontal conditions found in adolescents were distributed throughout the region and concentrated in cities of greater population size and best oral health service performance. This fact can be associated with social, environmental, economic factors and also with oral health services management. Conclusion: Georeferenced oral epidemiological studies may help to understand the role of environment in health outcome. The images formed from thematic maps provide subsidies for planning in oral health.