Seasonal Variation and Its Perceived Impact on Periodontal Health: Among Adults in Saudi Arabia

Vollständiger Abstract

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Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the impact of seasonal variations on periodontal health as perceived and experienced by adults in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire addressing periodontal symptoms including bleeding, swelling, halitosis and discomfort. Moreover, the study investigated various behavioral and environmental factors associated with these seasonal changes. Objectives: To determine whether adults perceive changes in their gum health based on seasonal variations. Methodology: This cross-sectional study evaluated how adults in Saudi Arabia perceive the impact of seasonal variation on periodontal health and explored associated behavioral and environmental factors. A structured, self-administered online questionnaire was distributed between July and December 2025 to Saudi adults aged ≥18 years, recruited via social media platforms. The survey collected sociodemographic data, self-reported periodontal symptoms (gingival bleeding, swelling, pain and halitosis) across seasons and information on oral hygiene practices, hydration, smoking and stress. Data from 1,001 fully completed questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The sample was relatively young (mean age 31.3 years), with 56.3% females and 39.5% students. Overall, 54.5% reported gingival bleeding while brushing, 46.9% gingival swelling, 48.0% gum pain and 48.8% persistent bad breath. Summer was the most frequently reported season of symptom exacerbation for bleeding (32.9%), swelling (27.9%), pain (27.5%) and halitosis (25.7), followed by winter. More than half (58.5%) perceived that their gum health changes across seasons and 62.2% believed that symptoms and related habits vary seasonally. Smoking prevalence was 15.3% and 44.2% reported that seasonal changes in stress levels affected their gum health. Knowledge scores about the impact of seasonal changes on periodontal health were low in 47.1% of participants and high in 29.9%, whereas awareness scores were high in 49.8% and low in 39.2%. Knowledge and awareness were significantly associated with educational level and awareness also varied by profession and self-rated general health. Conclusion: These findings indicate that a substantial proportion of Saudi adults perceive seasonal fluctuations in periodontal symptoms, particularly during summer and winter and link them to modifiable behaviors and environmental conditions, highlighting opportunities for season-sensitive preventive strategies.