Which factor is commonly associated with a higher prevalence of furcation involvement in older populations?

Furcation involvement, which refers to the loss of periodontal attachment in the area between the roots of multi-rooted teeth, is significantly influenced by various risk factors. In older populations, smoking and diabetes are particularly critical because both conditions are well-documented to adversely affect periodontal health.

Smoking is a known risk factor that can compromise the immune response and lead to reduced blood flow in the gingival tissues, thereby impairing healing and predisposing individuals to periodontal disease. The adverse effects of smoking on oral health are compounded by the fact that many older adults may have been smoking for decades, resulting in cumulative damage to their periodontal tissues.

Diabetes, especially when poorly controlled, contributes to a higher prevalence of periodontal disease due to altered immune response and increased inflammation in periodontal tissues. Hyperglycemia can lead to enhanced bacterial growth and pathogenic changes in the oral microbiome, further exacerbating periodontal conditions like furcation involvement.

Considering these factors, the combination of smoking and diabetes forms a significant risk profile that leads to a higher prevalence of furcation involvement among older adults, as they often experience both to a greater extent than younger populations. This association underscores the importance of addressing these lifestyle factors to improve periodontal health in older individuals.