The aim of this epidemiological survey was to analyze the periodontal conditions of 19-year old individuals in two rural county areas, i.e. Fyrbodal and Skaraborg, Västra Götaland, Sweden, with special reference to gender and socioeconomic grouping. A randomized sample of 506 individuals (Fyrbodal 250 and Skaraborg 256 individuals, respectively) was clinically examined with regard to oral hygiene, gingivitis, periodontal pockets and gingival recession. Bitewing radiographs were used for assessment of alveolar bone level (ABL) and dental calculus. A questionnaire-based interview regarding oral hygiene habits was included. A majority of the subjects (76%) claimed to brush their teeth at least twice a day, while interdental hygiene means were used daily by 4%. The subjects showed a mean plaque score of 47% and a gingivitis score of 56%. Forty-six % of the adolescents had a plaque score of > or = 50%, whereas the corresponding figure for gingivitis was 62%. The subjects had on average 5.5 teeth with facial gingival recession. The mean prevalence of sites with probing depth (PPD) of > or = 4 mm was 8, out of which 99% were located at proximal sites. A radiographic bone level of > 2 mm was observed at on average 0.4 teeth per subject. Logistic regression analyses revealed that gender (males) and county area (Fyrbodal) were significant factors for a high plaque and gingivitis score. There was no significant difference in periodontal conditions in relation to socio-economic grouping. In conclusion, the survey revealed higher prevalence of plaque and gingivitis among male than female adolescents, but no differences between socioeconomic groups.