Osteoporosis and periodontitis: Is there a possible link.

Background: Periodontitis and osteoporosis are two diseases found worldwide having the main characteristic of increasing intensity with age. Periodontitis is associated with resorption of the alveolar bone. Osteoporosis is characterized by bone loss leading to structural bone transformation. The association between periodontitis and osteoporosis is continually being examined. The aim of this study is to examine the condition of periodontal tissues in patients suffering from osteoporosis and establish a possible link. Materials and Methods: Cross‑sectional study with 200 samples having test (n = 100) and control group (n = 100) were checked for periodontal condition. A total of 100 patients diagnosed as having osteoporosis based on bone mineral density at distal end of radius were regarded as test group and 100 subjects included in control group were healthy. Periodontal parameters measured were plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL). Statistical test performed were Student’s paired t‑test and unpaired t‑test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: Probing depth and CAL were significantly negatively co‑related with T‑score in test group when compared with control group. This meant an inverse relationship in between the T‑score and the clinical parameters, PD and CAL. Furthermore, some difference was noted in test group in PI, GI and PD, CAL and T‑score when compared with the controls. Conclusion: Thus, we conclude that there is a definite relationship between osteoporosis and periodontitis based on PD and CAL.

Estimation of relationship between psychosocial stress and periodontal status using serum cortisol level: A clinico-biochemical study.

Aims and Objectives: Psychological conditions, particularly psychosocial stress, have been implicated as risk indicators for periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of psychosocial stress that influences the periodontium with the use of a questionnaire data and serum cortisol level. Materials and Methods: In this study 47 subjects, both male and female, were taken and divided into two groups. Group I comprised of 16 chronic periodontitis subjects. Their stress level was evaluated using a standard questionnaire method (social readjustment rating scale). Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), periodontal disease index (PDI) and serum cortisol level were also measured. Group II comprised of 31 stressed subjects and their clinical parameters PI, GI, PDI and cortisol level were recorded. Statistical Analysis Used: Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and unpaired 't' test. Results: In group I statistically significant correlation (P<0.05) was found between cortisol and PDI; and cortisol and PI. In group II positive correlation was found between stress, cortisol, PI, GI and PDI. A statistically significant correlation was found between cortisol and smoking. Conclusion: Stress may be a contributing factor in periodontal disease.