An experimental periodontal screening examination and index was used to measure the prevalence of gingivitis and periodontitis among 1,334 soldiers at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Although 12.1% of the subjects demonstrated no disease, 40.3% were found to have gingivitis. In this sample group, the occurrence of gingivitis decreased with increasing age. Early periodontitis (probing depths of 3-5 mm) was detected in 35.7% of the subjects, and subjects with moderate to advanced periodontitis (probing depths greater than 5 mm) comprised 11.9% of the sample. The screening exam used is suggested for use as part of each soldier's annual dental examination.