Periodontal Status Research Articles

Rugoscopic Evaluation of Periodontal Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Rugoscopy, which is the study of the ridges on the roof of the mouth, or rugae palatinae, is frequently employed to identify individuals. Since these ridges maintain their shape throughout a person's life, their unique patterns are used as a diagnostic aid for periodontal diseases. Objective The aim of this study is to explore the connection between palatal rugae patterns and periodontal diseases. Methodology A study group of 120 patients aged between 18 and 60 was meticulously grouped according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) 1999 classification of periodontal diseases: Group A comprised healthy individuals, Group B had patients diagnosed with gingivitis, Group C included patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis, and Group D had patients diagnosed with aggressive periodontitis. Maxillary impressions from each group were cast in dental stone and analyzed in detail for rugae patterns. Results Patients with gingivitis and chronic periodontitis predominantly showed a sinuous rugae pattern, while those with aggressive periodontitis exhibited an angular rugae pattern. Using the chi-square test (p < 0.05) to perform statistical analysis confirmed a significant association between rugae patterns and diagnosis, thus supporting the hypothesis of a nuanced relationship between palatal rugae patterns and specific periodontal conditions. Conclusion In summary, palatal rugoscopy provides a sophisticated and precise method for identifying and understanding various periodontal conditions, offering a potential breakthrough in diagnosing and prognosticating these conditions.

Assessment and Comparison of N-Terminal-Probrain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) in Saliva and Serum of Healthy Subjects, Periodontitis Patients, and Periodontitis Patients With Myocardial Infarction.

Introduction Periodontitis is a multifactorial oral disease causing destruction of the periodontium. Systemic diseases can exacerbate periodontal inflammation through immune dysregulation. N-terminal-probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) a prohormone, released by myocardial cells is a known biomarker for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Existing literature discloses a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and CVD. NT-proBNP release can be regulated by mediators of the systemic inflammation. Cardiocyte NT-proBNP release might get stimulated through proinflammatory cytokines. NT-proBNP levels can also be influenced by systemic inflammation in the absence of cardiac dysfunction. Accordingly, we postulated that the inflammation of periodontium could aid in increased levels of NT-proBNP in serum and saliva in participants without cardiovascular disorders. Saliva is said to be the mirror of the body. Assessing NT-pro BNP in saliva allows for a non-invasive method. The present research evaluated the salivary and serum concentrations of NT-proBNP in a healthy group, patients suffering from periodontal disease and periodontal disease along with myocardial infarction (MI). Material and method A total of 90 patients, 30 in each group i.e., healthy group, periodontitis patients and patients suffering from periodontitis with myocardial infarction, were enrolled. The periodontitis patients were selected according to the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases and Conditions 2017. Patients clinically diagnosed with MI by the physician were selected following World Health Organization criteria for detection of MI. Case history was recorded and periodontal parameter analysis like plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were measured. Salivary and serum samples were collected from the participants after obtaining informed consent. The samples were subjected to human NT-proBNP sandwich type enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantitative evaluation. The obtained data was analysed and compared using ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc test and Pearson's correlation. The p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result PI and GI were highest in subjects with periodontitis only (p<0.05). Patients suffering from periodontitis with MI exhibited significantly higher PPD and CAL values (p<0.05). Salivary and serum concentrations of NT-proBNP were significantly higher with p-value=0.000 in subjects suffering from periodontitis with MI. The salivary NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher than serum NT-proBNP levels in periodontitis and periodontitis with MI patients. The levels of NT-proBNP in periodontitis along with MI patients were 1.570 pg/mL in serum and 1.694 pg/mL in saliva. Conclusion Salivary NT-proBNP levels were highest in subjects affected from periodontitis along with MI. Elevated salivary NT-proBNP levels can be due to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular stress linking periodontitis to MI. The positive correlation between periodontal parameters and NT-proBNP levels validates the biomarker's role in reflecting the extent of periodontal destruction and its association with cardiovascular stress. Salivary NT-proBNP can be used as a non-invasive diagnostic marker for diagnosing periodontitis and MI. Future research could explore targeted therapies for the shared inflammatory pathways between periodontitis and MI.

Salivary IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 Are Key Biomarkers of Periodontitis Severity.

To explore severity and progression biomarkers, we examined the clinical relevance of multiple cytokines and mediators involved in the inflammatory response in periodontitis. A cohort of 68 patients was enrolled in the study and periodontal status assessed by the current classification of periodontal diseases. Immune mediators present in saliva, of both patients and healthy controls, were quantified using a Legendplex-13 panel. Clinic parameters were significantly higher in PD patients compared with HC, with a strong significant association with the disease severity (stage) (p < 0.001), but not with progression (grade). The panel of immune mediators evidenced elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β as disease established (p < 0.01). IL-1β/IL-1RA ratio was increased in PD patients, being associated with disease stage. An anti-inflammatory response was spotted by higher IL-10. Lower levels of IL-23 and IP-10 were associated with disease severity. No significant statistical differences were found by grade classification. Moreover, salivary IL-1β and IL-6 exhibited significant positive correlations with several clinical measurements (PI, BOP, PPD, CAL), while IP-10 showed a statistical negative correlation with BOP, PPD, and CAL. These insights highlight the complexity of the periodontitis inflammatory network and the potential of cytokines as biomarkers for refined diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Application of Nano-Hydroxyapatite Implantation for Periodontitis Treatment and Oral Tissue Regeneration

In this study, the combined application of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) implants and root planing was used for the treatment of periodontitis. A total of 80 patients with chronic periodontitis who were admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to March 2023 were selected and randomly divided into the control group (root planing) and observation group (root planing+nHA implants), each consisting of 40 cases. The gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected to detect changes in inflammatory factors before, 6 weeks after, and 12 weeks after operation. Additionally, periodontal indexes such as plaque index (PLI), sulcus bleeding index (SBI), probing depth (PD), and attachment loss (AL) were evaluated. The therapeutic efficacy, aesthetic outcome, and incidence of adverse reactions were analyzed between the two groups. The results indicated that after the operation, both groups exhibited lower levels of periodontal index AL, PD, SBI, PLI, and inflammatory factors compared to pre-operation levels. However, the observation group demonstrated superior outcomes with significantly higher postoperative PES scores and total treatment effective rates. Although adverse reaction incidence was slightly lower in the observation group (7.5%) than in the control group (15%), there was no statistically significant difference between them (P &gt; 0.05). Therefore, it can be inferred that the combined application of nHA implants and root planing in patients with chronic periodontitis yields favorable postoperative recovery and effectively enhances the periodontal condition. Consequently, this approach can serve as an optimal therapeutic strategy for the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Evaluation of alveolar bone loss among diabetic patients with class II amalgam restorations.

The relationship between Class II amalgam restorations and alveolar bone loss among diabetic and non-diabetic patients is evaluated at the Faculty of Dentistry, Najran University, KSA. Hence, we compared type 2 diabetic (n = 32) and non-diabetic patients (n=32) using clinical assessments and imaging techniques. Parameters such as bone loss rate, extent, age, and periodontal condition (plaque index and Gingival Index) were analyzed. Analysis of data shows that diabetic patients on average have higher bone loss.

Exploring the Implications of Cultural Dental Mutilation on Periodontal Health: A Study on Mentawai Women's Traditional Teeth Sharpening

Teeth sharpening is a part of the Mentawai tribe’s rich cultural legacy and is done by women upon reaching adulthood in Indonesia. However, it has been linked to negative impacts on oral health, particularly in the periodontal tissues. This paper studied the periodontal tissues of Mentawai women who have undergone teeth sharpening, considering potential specific implications. Employing a descriptive approach, this cross-sectional study was conducted across four villages in Mentawai Island, Indonesia. Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHIS) and the Gingival Index (GI) were used to assess the periodontal status of eight Mentawai women who had undergone teeth sharpening. The study revealed a notable absence of optimal periodontal tissue health among respondents with suboptimal oral hygiene practices (OHIS score 3.4) and considerable gingival inflammation (GI score 2.2). The presence of supragingival and infragingival calculus, alongside visible stains across the teeth of Mentawai women were due inadequate of oral health care behavior. In addition, the findings underscore the intricate interplay between cultural practices and gender-specific health outcomes. A deeper understanding of health behaviors, as influenced by culture, health beliefs, acculturation, and attitudes, is needed to formulate appropriate oral health promotion policies. A gender-informed perspective will encourage a broader dialogue about preserving cultural heritage as well as empowering the role of women in their family and community on oral health improvement. The implementation of this analysis would be developing the best strategy for modifying this custom in order to keep it while preserving oral health. Keywords: Cultural dental mutilation; Periodontal health; Mentawaians Women; Sharpening Teeth Tradition

Comparative effects of e-cigarette smoking on periodontal status, salivary pH, and cotinine levels

BackgroundThe nicotine in e-cigarette liquid can negatively impact periodontal tissues by altering the salivary pH and elevating cotinine levels. Thus, the study aimed to determine the periodontal parameters, salivary pH, and cotinine levels among cigarette, e-cigarette, and never-smokers.MethodsA total of 144 participants were recruited (48 cigarette smokers, 48 e-cigarette smokers, and 48 never-smokers). Clinical periodontal parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), periodontal probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were recorded, excluding third molars. The level of unstimulated whole salivary pH was measured using a portable pH meter and the levels of salivary cotinine were measured using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).ResultsData were analysed statistically using analysis of variance. Mean scores of PPD, percentage of pocket depth ≥ 4 mm, and CAL (p < 0.05) were significantly higher among cigarette smokers than those in e-cigarette and never-smokers, while GI (p < 0.05) were significantly higher among e-cigarette smokers. The unstimulated salivary pH was more acidic among cigarette smokers (p < 0.05) and e-cigarette smokers (p < 0.05) than in never-smokers. The cotinine levels were higher among cigarette smokers (p < 0.05) and e-cigarette smokers (p < 0.05) than in never-smokers.ConclusionsClinical periodontal parameters were poorer in cigarette smokers than in e-cigarette smokers and never-smokers. Meanwhile, cigarette and e-cigarette smokers have more acidic salivary pH and higher cotinine levels than in never-smokers.

Caries and periodontal health status of male inmates: a retrospective study conducted in a French prison

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to describe the oral health status of inmates. The secondary aims were to compare recidivists with first-time offenders and also study the impact of psychoactive drugs on the oral health status.Design/methodology/approachThis retrospective study included 120 male inmates from a French prison. Data from the medical and the dental questionnaires and examinations were collected and analyzed.FindingsThe results showed that overall, the inmates had a poor oral health despite their young age. This population was at high risk regarding caries and periodontal diseases due to sedentary behaviors, improper diet, drug, alcohol and tobacco consumption. In total, 93% of inmates had at least one decayed untreated tooth and 95% had periodontal disease. The use of psychoactive drugs seemed strongly related to oral health status degradation. However, the comparison between recidivists and first-time offenders showed few differences.Practical implicationsThe need for periodontal and dental care is considerable in this population and increased in this environment where risk factors such as addictive behaviors and poor eating habits are common. The impact of psychoactive drugs on oral health should also be taken into consideration.Social implicationsUnfortunately, even though strategies for the prevention and management of oral health in prisons have been put in place for some years, the results still seem insufficient.Originality/valueThere are still few studies that analyze the impact of this medication on oral health in prisons.

Structure, governance and delivery of specialist training programs in periodontology and implant dentistry.

To update the competences and learning outcomes and their evaluation, educational methods and education quality assurance for the training of contemporary specialists in periodontology, including the impact of the 2018 Classification of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases and Conditions (2018 Classification hereafter) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs). Evidence was gathered through scientific databases and by searching for European policies on higher education. In addition, two surveys were designed and sent to program directors and graduates. Program directors reported that curricula were periodically adapted to incorporate advances in diagnosis, classification, treatment guidelines and clinical techniques, including the 2018 Classification and the EFP CPGs. Graduates evaluated their overall training positively, although satisfaction was limited for training in mucogingival and surgical procedures related to dental implants. Traditional educational methods, such as didactic lectures, are still commonly employed, but they are now often associated with more interactive methods such as case-based seminars and problem-based and simulation-based learning. The evaluation of competences/learning outcomes should employ multiple methods of assessment. An update of competences and learning outcomes of specialist training in periodontology is proposed, including knowledge and practical application of the 2018 Classification and CPGs. Harmonizing specialist training in periodontology is a critical issue at the European level.

Oral Health Status of the Institutionalized Elderly in Mangalore City, Karnataka, South India: Extents, Insights and Action

Oral diseases are progressive and cumulative across the life span and due to this reason, the oral health of the institutionalized elderly is of concern within the realm of geriatric care. An improvement in oral health among the institutionalized elderly will boost their social life, self-confidence, mastication and nutritional status, thereby bringing a positive outlook. To assess the periodontal status, dental caries experience, prosthetic status, and prosthetic need of institutionalized elderly in Mangalore. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the dental caries experience, periodontal status, prosthetic status, and prosthetic needs of 143 elderly individuals living in geriatric homes in Mangalore city. The demographic data, periodontal status, prosthetic status, and prosthetic need was obtained using the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form 1997. Dental caries experience was recorded according to the WHO modified DMFT Index. Descriptive statistics was obtained using SPSS version 16. The mean dental caries experience of the study subjects was 8.80. The presence of supra or sub gingival calculus was noted in 44.8 % of the subjects and the presence of a pathological pocket of 4 mm or more was seen in 32 %. About 33 of the subjects did not require any kind of prosthesis in the upper &amp; lower arch. From this survey of the institutionalized elderly population, it was evident that, half of them had supra or subgingival calculus deposits and more than 76.9 % have one or the other need for a prosthesis. Keywords Edentulousness, Elderly inmates, Old age homes, Oral health

Evaluation of Periodontal Clinicoradiographic Status and Whol Salivary Prostaglandin E2 Levels among Users of Water Pipe and Cigarettes.

The objective was to evaluate the periodontal clinicoradiographic status and whole salivary prostaglandin E2 (PgE2) levels among users of water pipe and cigarettes. Demographic data, duration of smoking (pack years), and familial history of smoking were recorded using a questionnaire. Participants were allocated into three groups based on their smoking status: group 1: self-reported cigarette smokers (CS); group 2: self-reported water-pipe-users; and group 3: non-smokers. The assessment included measurements of full-mouth plaque and gingival indices (PI and GI), as well as probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and marginal bone loss (MBL). Unstimulated whole saliva samples were collected and PgE2 levels were measured. Group comparisons were done and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Thirty-three, 34 and 33 individuals were included in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Full mouth PI (p<0.05), GI (p<0.05), PD (p<0.05) and mesial (p<0.05) and distal (p<0.05) MBL were statistically significantly higher among patients in groups 1 and 2 than group 3. The scores of CAL in groups 1 and 2 were 3.45 ± 0.97 and 3.62 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. None of the individuals in the control group displayed CAL. PgE2 levels were statistically significantly higher among patients in groups 1 (231.5 ± 66.3 pg/ml) (p<0.05) and 2 (231.5 ± 66.3 pg/ml) (p<0.05) compared with group 3 (76.6 ± 10.6 pg/ml). In groups 1 and 2, a statistically significant relationship was observed between pack-years, the duration of water-pipe smoking, and the levels of PgE2 and PD. There is no difference in periodontal clinicoradiographic status and whole salivary PgE2 levels between CS and waterpipe-users; however, these parameters are worse in CS and water-pipe users than in non-smokers.

Fermented foods and probiotic consumption frequency as protective indicators for peri-implant diseases – a cross-sectional study

BackgroundDue to their modulatory effect on biofilm growth, bacterial gene expressions, and host-modulation effects, fermented foods and probiotic products could potentially have a protective role against peri-implant diseases. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association of consumption of fermented foods and products containing probiotics, with peri-implant health and diseases.MethodsA total of 126 implants were included. The peri-implant health status (peri-implantitis, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implant health) was assessed through Chicago’s Classification of periodontal and peri-implant Diseases and Conditions. A questionnaire was used to evaluate the consumption patterns of fermented and probiotic foods and product. One-way ANOVA was employed to compare the 3 peri-implant conditions categories in terms of fermented food and probiotic consumption.ResultsThere were significant differences in the daily and general consumption of yogurt, probiotic yogurt, kefir, ayran, vinegar, pomegranate syrup, whole meal bread, and homemade butter among peri-implantitis, peri-implant mucositis and peri-implant health (p < 0.05). The peri-implant health group consumed significantly more yogurt, kefir, ayran, vinegar, whole wheat bread, and homemade butter than peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis.ConclusionA higher consumption of fermented and probiotic foods may be associated with peri-implant health. Fermented and probiotic products may be useful for prevention of peri-implant diseases in patients with implants.

Assessment of Periodontal Health Status and Treatment Needs Among Pregnant Women.

Background Pregnancy-related periodontal health is vital for maternal and fetal well-being, with implications on birth outcomes. However, comprehensive data on periodontal health among pregnant women in Pakistan are lacking. This research aimed to assess the periodontal health status and treatment needs among pregnant women in Pakistan. Methodology This study conducted at Multan Medical and Dental College in Multan, Pakistan, utilized a cross-sectional design over one year from January 2023 to December 2023. It enrolled 230 pregnant women from the prenatal care clinic, employing strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure data integrity. Data collection involved a systematic questionnaire and clinical examination by qualified dental practitioners, covering demographic details, obstetric history, dental hygiene habits, and periodontal health parameters. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate periodontal health status determinants. Results This study, comprising 230 participants, delineates key demographic and periodontal health indicators. Notably, the age group between 26 and 30 years made up the greatest percentage (n = 87, 37.83%), followed by the age group between 18 and 25 years (n = 58, 25.22%). The chi-square test showed a significant association betweenage and periodontal health (χ² = 8.23, df = 3, p = 0.041). University-educated participants showed decreased periodontal risks (odds ratio = 0.51, p = 0.037), with education level also emerging as a significant factor (χ² = 12.76, df = 2, p = 0.002). Regarding dental hygiene, 44.35% of people brushed twice a day, and 27.83% flossed every day. Periodontal data revealed that 53.04% of individuals had gingivitis and that the mean probing depth was 3.22 mm. Scaling and root planing were the most requested therapy (50.00%). Conclusions This study provides valuable insights into the periodontal health status and treatment needs of pregnant women in Pakistan. Investigative analyses including chi-square tests and logistic regression identified significant associations between demographic factors, oral hygiene practices, and periodontal health outcomes among pregnant women in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to enhance maternal and child health.

Herbal Medicine as an Adjunct in the Treatment of Periodontal Diseases - A Systematic Review

Background In recent times, a shift has been observed among both researchers and dental patients towards opting for herbal remedies and products to address issues like dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, periimplantitis, and dentin hypersensitivity. These herbal solutions encompass herbs, herbal constituents, formulations, and products derived from genuine plant components or other plant-derived materials. Objective This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current body of literature regarding the added advantages of herbal medicinal products in managing periodontal and peri-implant conditions. Methods RCT published in English from 2013 till Sep 2023 in the terms “medicinal plants,” “plant medicine,” “dental herbs,” “medical herbs,” and “phytomedicine” were utilized to identify pertinent research papers. These search phrases were applied across the databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Case reports, case series, longitudinal studies, and retrospective analyses were not included. PRISMA standards were followed in this review. Results A total of fifteen (n=24) randomized clinical trials about herbal drugs and periodontal implications and three (n=3) trials on dental hypersensitivity were assessed. The trials assessed the use of various herbal products in treating periodontal and per-implant conditions. Conclusion Plant-based phytochemicals have anti-inflammatory effects that could be used as an alternative to treat periodontal and peri-implant conditions. Recent research on the different active components included in this study show significant improvements in the clinical parameters. To suggest them as substitutes for the non-herbal elements, more research is necessary.

Association Between Low Kidney Function and Excess Weight Concerning Unfavourable Periodontal Health among Community-dwelling Older Japanese Women.

To investigate the association of low renal function and overweight with poor periodontal condition in community-dwelling older Japanese women. In total, 359 older women (age range: 55-74 years) participated in this study. Two periodontal parameters - the number of teeth with a probing pocket depth (PPD) or clinical attachment level (CAL) ≥ 4 mm - were used as the dependent variables. The principal independent variables were low renal function as defined by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and overweight as defined by the body mass index. Poisson regression analysis was used to calculate the ratio of means (RM). The RMs of the number of teeth with a PPD or CAL ≥ 4 mm in an adjusted model without an interaction term were 1.21- or 1.27-fold higher among those with an eGFR < 60, while those among the participants with an eGFR < 60 in the adjusted model with interaction terms for the number of teeth with a PPD or CAL ≥ 4 mm were 1.43- or 1.36-fold higher. In addition, increments of periodontal risk with low renal function and overweight showed a slightly smaller to negative trend. The present findings suggest a connection between unfavourable periodontal health and both renal function and being overweight among older Japanese women. A weak negative interaction was also found between poor renal condition and overweight in relation to periodontal condition.

Oral Health Care for Children and Youth With Developmental Disabilities: Clinical Report.

Oral health is an essential component of overall health for all individuals. The oral health of children and youth with developmental disabilities (CYDD) involves unique characteristics and needs of which pediatricians and pediatric clinicians can be aware. Risk for oral disease in CYDD is multifactorial and includes underlying medical conditions, medications, and ability to participate in preventive oral health care and treatment, and lack of access to providers is common for this population despite being eligible for Medicaid. Pediatric clinicians are uniquely positioned to support the oral health needs of CYDD and their families through the medical home. This clinical report aims to inform pediatric clinicians about the unique oral health needs of CYDD. It provides guidance on assessing caries risk and periodontal status using structured screening instruments; understanding dental trauma, the role of diet and caries risk, trauma prevention, and malocclusion; and providing anticipatory guidance on oral hygiene that includes tooth brushing, use of fluoridated toothpaste, assessing community water fluoridation, advocating for a dental home by 1 year of age, and transition to adult dental care as part of adolescent health care. It also highlights special considerations for dental treatment rendered under sedation or general anesthesia that CYDD may need. Pediatric clinicians can help reduce risk of CYDD developing dental disease by understanding the unique needs of their patients and their barriers to accessing oral health care in their community, communicating with the child's dental home, and advocating for safe and accessible dental procedures.

Comparative Analysis of Serum and Saliva Iron, Ferritin, and TIBC in Women with Iron Deficiency Anemia: Highlighting Saliva's Screening Potential

Background: Iron deficiency anemia is a prevalent form of anemia, particularly among women. Diagnosing and tracking this condition typically requires various measurements of serum iron, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) through blood testing. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the utility of saliva as a predictive marker for monitoring iron levels in iron deficiency anemia by comparing and correlating iron, ferritin, and TIBC levels in the serum and saliva of anemic and healthy women. Methods: In this comparative analysis, 40 women aged 20 - 40 with a similar periodontal status (anemic subjects = 20 and healthy subjects = 20) were examined. After a complete hematological and oral examination, salivary samples were collected using the spitting method, and iron, ferritin, and TIBC levels were measured and compared to the serum levels. Data were analyzed using SPSS 24. Results: The study results showed that the differences in saliva iron and ferritin levels were insignificant between the two groups (P-value = 0.07 and 0.26, respectively), but those were statistically significant in the serum (P-value = 0.0001 and 0.0001, respectively). Additionally, a significant difference was found in the saliva TIBC level (P-value = 0.001), which was negligible in the serum (P-value = 0.118). Conclusions: The results underscore the efficacy of integrating both serum and saliva analyses for comprehending iron-related parameters. While saliva analysis cannot entirely substitute for serum analysis, it represents a convenient approach that may serve as an initial step or be employed in large-scale anemia screenings.

Association between objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation with patient-reported outcomes following head and neck radiation therapy.

To determine whether objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation correlates with subjective measures of eating, drinking, and salivation in patients following head and neck radiation therapy (HNRT). This cross-sectional study included 112 patients following HNRT with a completed patient-reported outcome (PRO) scale. Objective measures at post-HNRT visit included decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) scores, periodontal disease condition, oral hygiene status, dental prosthesis use, and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands. Data were collected and statistical analysis was performed. There was no significant association between PRO scales and dental prosthesis use, periodontal disease, and oral hygiene. Although some significant findings were seen with DMFT and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands, this explained only very small amounts of the variation in eating, drinking, and salivation measures in these patients. PRO measures should be integrated in the routine care of patients with head and neck cancer.

Ten years' evaluation of periodontal status and its changes among Japanese older adults.

This study aims to evaluate the periodontal status and its changes among Japanese older adults over a 10-year period. A total of 206 dentate older adults aged 70 years who completely participated in 10 years of oral examination were included. The community periodontal index (CPI) was used to assess the gingival and periodontal pocket status, while the loss of attachment (LA) scoring system was used to report the extensive LA. A higher score in CPI (Code 3 and Code 4) and more extensive attachment loss were found in a majority of participants. During follow-up evaluation, mean number of sextants with CPI code 4 remained stable, while CPI code 3 significantly decreased particularly in male participants. Whereas, sextants without attachment loss significantly decreased on average. The mean number of missing sextants significantly increased from 1.1 to 1.9, and 5.8% of subjects had all sextants excluded in the follow-up. This study indicated that majority of the older people experienced severe periodontal disease and this condition remained stable during 10-year period. Additionally, the incidence of tooth loss increased as individuals aged. Regular oral care and maintenance are highly recommended for older population.

The Influence of Dental Status and Blood Parameters Characterizing Endogenous Intoxication on the Timing of Childbirth.

Background and Objectives: Epidemiological and microbiological-immunological studies have led to the conclusion that periodontal disease may be a risk factor for preterm birth. The aim of this study was to investigate and identify the relationship of some hematological cellular biomarkers characterizing the chronic oral focus of infection with pregnancy outcomes and their impact on those outcomes. Materials and Methods: Clinical and laboratory tests were conducted on 100 pregnant women, grouped by full-term or preterm births, with the assessment of the following markers: DMF, CPI and PIRI, PHP, microbiological examination of periodontal pockets and amniotic fluid, WBS count, WBCSI, LGI, and NMR. A statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS Statistics version 19.0. Results: Women with preterm labor had higher-grade caries (CSL > 0.3), while women with full-term childbirth had moderate caries (CSL < 0.3). A satisfactory level of oral hygiene efficiency was found in 50% (group 1) and 38.1% (group 2) of the expectant mothers. The periodontal status by the PIRI showed tissue lesions in 20.7% (group 1) and 92.9% (group 2) of the women. The WBCSI was 2.27 ± 0.82 and 2.15 ± 0.68, the NMR was 9.29 ± 5.119 and 11.62 ± 7.78, and the LGI was 3.54 ± 1.1 and 3.73 ± 0.81 in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Comparative analysis of bacterial contamination of the amniotic fluid revealed the predominance of Fusobacterium nucleatum (64.3%), Tannerella forsythia (57.1%), Prevotella intermedia (50%), Porphyromonas gingivalis (57.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (45.2%), and Candida albicans (50%) in women with premature birth. Conclusions: In women with preterm birth, the values of the indices characterizing a chronic oral focus of infection evoke more significant correlations with the timing of delivery, which indicates the significant role of an oral focus of infection. The presence of microbial invasion of amniotic fluid may indicate the role of periodontopathogenic bacteria in pregnant women diagnosed with a risk of preterm birth.