Association of salivary levels of DNA sensing inflammasomes AIM2, IFI16, and cytokine IL18 with periodontitis and diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Aberrant deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) contributes to inflammasome orchestrated progression of chronic inflammatory diseases like diabetes and periodontitis. The purpose of the present study was to estimate salivary levels of DNA sensing inflammasomes, absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2), interferon γ inducible protein (IFI16), and cytokine interleukin 18 (IL18) in individuals with periodontitis, diabetes, and healthy controls and interpret its association with periodontal and diabetic parameters. METHODS: Salivary levels of AIM2, IFI16, and IL18 were estimated by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in a total of 120 individuals (n = 30 in each group), namely, healthy (Group 1), periodontitis (Group 2), diabetes (Group 3), and diabetes with periodontitis (Group 4). Correlations of inflammasome levels and periodontal clinical parameters-plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) were performed. Multiple regression was carried out to predict AIM2 and IFI16 with various independent variables. RESULTS: The mean salivary levels of AIM2, IFI16, and IL18 were highest in diabetes with periodontitis (Group 4) and least in healthy (Group 1) and statistically significant between the groups (p = 0.000). Significant positive correlation between clinical periodontal parameters and AIM2, IFI16, and IL18 was present (p ≤ 0.05). Multiple regression showed glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) (p = 0.002), GI (p = 0.016), PISA (p = 0.002), and CAL (p = 0.004) were significant predictors of AIM2, while HbA1C (p = 0.012), PISA (p = 0.003), and CAL (p = 0.007) predicted IFI16. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study showed higher levels of AIM2, IFI16, and IL18 in saliva of individuals with diabetes and periodontitis. HbA1C, PISA, and CAL were significant independent predictors of salivary AIM2 and IFI16 levels.

Physicochemical Characterization of Novel Biomaterial Consisting of Biphasic Calcium Phosphate, Chitosan, Casein and Ethanolic Leaves Extract of Ormocarpum Cochinchinense.

Background: Bioceramics are widely used as a biomaterial to promote bone regeneration. Bone defect management requires the placement of bone grafts. Though there are many bone grafts available, these have certain limitations like limited supply and second surgical site morbidity. Phytochemicals in plants are known to have bone regeneration capacity and are used in traditional medicine for bone fracture healing. Objective: The purpose of the study was to create a novel biomaterial consisting of a composite of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP), chitosan (CH), casein (CA), and ethanolic leaves extract of Ormocarpum Cochinchinense (OC) fabricated and characterized for physicochemical properties. Materials and Methods: BCP-CH-CA-OC material was prepared and immersed in Simulated body fluid (SBF) for 21 days. Physical properties were analysed through X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy dispersion spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Mechanical properties were analysed by compressive strength and diametral tensile strength tests. Using BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) analysis and Nano computed tomography (CT) scan, porosity measurements were made. Results: XRD did not show any significant change after immersion in SBF, indicating that the material was not under change and is stable. FTIR showed an increase in chitosan content, due to the loss of casein. SEM analysis showed the deposition of crystals and porous structure. EDS showed the deposition of minerals. Nano CT and BET analysis showed clinically significant porosity of 30%. Conclusion: The mechanical and physical properties of this novel biomaterial could be used in tissue engineering for the repair of bone defects in non-load-bearing areas. The physicochemical properties are at par with other materials used for the purpose of bone grafting. The novel biomaterial has the potential to be used in bone regenerative medicine in non-load-bearing applications.

Insight Into the Laboratory Diagnosis of Periimplantitis Using Reactive Oxygen Metabolite Levels - A Biochemical Study.

Aim The study aims to substantiate the quantitative role of the predominant periodontopathogen (Porphyromonas gingivalis) associated with peri-implantitis and evaluate the reactive oxygen metabolite levels in peri-implantitis patients. Methodology A total of 40 participants were taken from the department of periodontology, Thai Moogambigai Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, and divided into groups I (control) and II (test). Group I included 20 participants with healthy peri-implant tissue, and group II included 20 participants with infected peri-implant tissues. The predominant periodontopathogen was detected by using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Samples (gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), saliva, and plasma) were collected, and a biochemical assay was conducted for reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) analysis in healthy implants (control group) and peri-implantitis conditions (test group). ROM levels of the patients were statistically analyzed. Results The qualitative and quantitative profiles of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) associated with Peri-implantitis were analyzed, and the levels of ROM in periimplantitis patients were assessed. The study results substantiate the quantitative picture of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the detection of periimplantitis. The saliva and GCF samples showed significant differences in ROM levels between the test and control groups. Conclusion This is one of the few studies to detect the predominant bacterial pathogen associated with peri-implantitis and assess the ROM levels in periimplantitis patients. The study gives a correlation between the periopathogens and ROM levels, thereby facilitating the attainment of the best possible treatment options.

Evaluation of Reactive Oxygen Metabolites, Resistin, and Red Complex Bacteria in Obese Subjects with or without Periodontitis.

AIM: The study's aim was to assess and compare the clinical parameters, plasma reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) levels, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) resistin, serum resistin values, and red complex bacteria in obese or overweight subjects with and without periodontitis and also to determine the effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) on plasma ROM, serum, and GCF resistin values in obese or overweight subjects with chronic periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 160 subjects were recruited and designated into four groups with 40 subjects each as group I - obese with chronic periodontitis; group II - normal weight subjects with chronic periodontitis; group III - obese subjects with healthy periodontium; and group IV - normal weight subjects with healthy periodontium. The periodontal parameters, plasma ROM, GCF resistin and serum resistin, and red complex bacteria levels were estimated at baseline. After baseline assessment, scaling and root planing (SRP) were done in the patients of groups I and II. Two months after the completion of SRP, clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival index (GI), and clinical attachment loss (CAL), plasma ROM levels, serum resistin, and GCF resistin levels were analyzed. RESULTS: An increase in plasma ROM, GCF resistin, and red complex bacteria levels was observed in obese subjects with periodontal disease and the increase was noted in obese subjects with healthy periodontium. Comparing plasma ROM, GCF resistin values between groups I and II, 2 months after SRP, a decrease in these levels were observed in group II. CONCLUSION: Our study results depict that obesity can be considered as a risk indicator for periodontal disease. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Obesity has a negative impact on both general health and oral health. Promoting appropriate physical activity, healthy eating behavior, and oral hygiene practice are fundamental elements of the prevention of both obesity and periodontal disease.

A novel soft tissue cone-beam computed tomography study in the evaluation of gingival thickness associated with subepithelial connective tissue graft versus acellular dermal matrix in the management of gingival recession: A clinical study.

BACKGROUND: Dental esthetic awareness among patients led the clinicians to introduce newer materials and predictable techniques that satisfy the patients' esthetic demands. AIM: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of subepithelial connective tissue graft (SECTG) and acellular dermal matrix (ACDM) allograft in the treatment of Millers Class I or Class II recession with the determination of gingival thickness using an impertinent method, soft tissue cone-beam computed tomography (ST-CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A split-mouth study with a total of ten patients with bilateral Millers class I or class II recession is randomly assigned by a coin toss method as Group I (SECTG) and Group II (ACDM) along with coronally advanced flap. Clinical parameters including recession height (RH), recession width (RW), probing depth, clinical attachment level (CAL), and height of keratinized tissue (HKT) were evaluated at baseline, 90th day, and 180th day for both groups. The thickness of keratinized tissue (TKT) was determined by most reliable, predictable and noninvasive method called ST-CBCT. RESULTS: Statistically significant reduction in RH and RW, gain in CAL, and increase in HKT and TKT in both Group I and Group II were seen in 90th day and 180th day. However, when both Group I and Group II were compared between 0 and 180th day, the change in RH and RW, gain in CAL, and increase in HKT and TKT did not show any statistically significant change. CONCLUSION: The present study suggested that root coverage with both SECTG and ACDM is very predictable procedure and it is stable for 6 months. ST-CBCT is a newer dimension in periodontal imaging and will certainly aid clinicians in the execution of various treatment modalities with increased predictability.

Comparative Evaluation of Serum and Gingival Crevicular Fluid Periostin Levels in Periodontal Health and Disease: A Biochemical Study.

Introduction Periostin, a secreted adhesion molecule, is a matricellular protein secreted most in periodontal ligament and periosteum. This periostin is needed for integrity and maturation of periodontal tissue. The present study was conducted to estimate and compare the gingival crevicular fluid and serum periostin levels in subjects having chronic periodontitis, gingivitis and healthy periodontium. Methods Ninety patients belonging to both sexes were categorized into three groups, 30 patients each as healthy periodontium (Group I), chronic gingivitis (Group II) and generalised chronic periodontitis (Group III). The clinical parameters included assessment of plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum samples were collected and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to estimate periostin levels. Results Periostin levels in GCF were comparatively low in the chronic periodontitis than in the gingivitis and healthy periodontium groups and the difference was statistically significant. No statistical difference was found for serum periostin levels among Group I, Group II and Group III. On comparison of clinical parameters, significant difference was noticed among the three groups. GCF periostin levels were correlated inversely with the clinical parameters in chronic periodontitis patients. Conclusion GCF periostin levels were gradually reduced with the increase in severity of periodontal disease. This novel biomarker has role in maintaining normal periodontal tissue function and may be used as a potential marker in periodontal disease activity evaluation.

Evaluation of association between Porphyromonas gingivalis and visfatin levels in chronic periodontitis patients.

BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease is one of the most common prevailing diseases, where the destruction occurs due to the direct effect of microorganisms and indirectly by the stimulation of host cells. The diverse inflammatory action of visfatin made this adipokine a potential periodontal biomarker of choice along with the periopathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis. AIM: Our study was carried out to evaluate the visfatin levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and P. gingivalis levels in subgingival plaque in periodontal health and disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 participants were divided into two groups of thirty participants each as Group I - patients who have healthy periodontium and Group II - patients with generalized chronic periodontitis. The clinical parameters assessed for the participants were plaque index, probing pocket depth, papillary bleeding index, and clinical attachment loss. The subgingival plaque samples were obtained to estimate P. gingivalis levels and GCF was collected to check visfatin levels. RESULTS: The clinical parameters, P. gingivalis, and GCF visfatin levels between the two groups showed a notable significant difference. A significant positive correlation was noted on the correlation of GCF visfatin levels with clinical parameters. CONCLUSION: Our study outcomes propose that P. gingivalis can be the bonafide periopathogen which modulate the visfatin levels in individuals with periodontal disease and GCF visfatin can also be evaluated as a biomarker in periodontal disease.

Effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on plasma-reactive oxygen metabolite and gingival crevicular fluid resistin and serum resistin levels in obese and normal weight individuals with chronic periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: The hyperoxidative and a modified inflammatory state in obese individuals cause higher susceptibility to bacterial infection which influences the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. AIM: Our study was aimed to evaluate the role of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on the clinical parameters such as gingival index (GI), plaque index, pocket probing depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL), plasma-reactive oxygen metabolite (ROM) levels, and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) resistin and serum resistin levels in obese or overweight and normal weight individuals with periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty individuals of age between 35 and 45 years of both the sexes were selected and categorized into two groups as thirty overweight or obese individuals with chronic periodontitis (Group I) and thirty normal weight individuals with chronic periodontitis (Group II). Clinical parameters, plasma ROM levels, and serum and GCF resistin levels were assessed at baseline and 2 months after periodontal therapy in both the groups and compared. RESULTS: Intergroup comparison of clinical parameters (GI, CAL, PPD) 2 months after therapy showed a significant difference with more reduction in Group II compared to Group I. On comparison, mean plasma ROM, GCF, and serum resistin levels at baseline was higher in Group I compared to Group II. When plasma ROM, GCF, and serum resistin levels were compared 2 months after therapy, the reduction was more in Group II compared to Group I. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that along with periodontal therapy, motivation of patients for weight reduction program is mandatory for obese or overweight individuals with periodontitis in order to improve periodontal health.

Efficacy of low-level laser therapy as an adjunct to button anchored coronally advanced flap for gingival recession: A Doppler study.

Coverage of the exposed root is one of the periodontal plastic surgical procedures, which is one of the important periodontal treatment modalities. The introduction of innovation in new interdisciplinary treatment modalities has allowed us the use of orthodontic button in root coverage procedures using a coronally advanced flap (CAF) to provide the initial stabilization. This case report also evaluates the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to detect the microvascular blood flow changes in the gingiva and alveolar mucosa where LLLT has been given after button-anchored CAF procedure during postoperative healing to detect blood flow changes of mucosa where LLLT was not given in other surgical sites. Three-month postoperative results showed that the LLLT used as an adjunct to CAF with the orthodontic button for stabilization is an effective surgical approach in the management of Miller's Class I recession defects.

Comparison of serum tumor necrosis factor-α levels in rheumatoid arthritis individuals with and without chronic periodontitis: A biochemical study.

BACKGROUND: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is indicated to play a major function in chronic inflammatory disorders. OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the cytokine level (TNF-α) in the serum of chronic periodontitis (CP), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), RA with CP, and healthy volunteers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This original research was carried out on 80 participants, divided into Group-I 20 RA patients, Group-II 20 CP patients, Group III 20 RA with CP (RA + CP), and Group IV 20 healthy volunteers. Clinical periodontal and rheumatological parameters were assessed in all the four groups. Blood serum samples have been collected from all individuals and investigated for levels of TNF-α by mean of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: TNF-α level were remarkably elevated in the RA+CP group (30.5±2.2) followed by RA group (17.9 ± 3.6), and CP group (11.9 ± 0.96) when compared with the controls (5.5 ± 3.3). The results showed a statistical significance of P < 0.001. Correlation was not observed on comparision of clinical periodontal parameters and Rheumatological parameters with TNF-α levels. CONCLUSION: The outcome of this present research revealed the presence of higher levels of TNF-α in individuals with RA with CP in our samples.

Comparative Analysis of Salivary Alkaline Phosphatase in Post menopausal Women with and without Periodontitis.

INTRODUCTION: Alkaline phosphatase is an intracellular destruction enzyme in the periodontium, and it takes part in the normal turnover of the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and root cementum formation and maintenance. AIM: The aim of this case control study was to evaluate the enzyme Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) level in saliva of post menopausal women with and without chronic periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 40 individuals, satisfying the study inclusion and exclusion criteria, were recruited. They were categorically divided, on the basis of gingival index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level, into two groups: Group I (post menopausal women with a clinically healthy periodontium, n=20); and Group II (post menopausal women with generalized chronic periodontitis, n=20). Clinical parameters assessed were Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) and Probing Pocket Depth (PPD). Unstimulated salivary samples were obtained in which the ALP concentration was measured using p-Nitrophenylphosphate, and 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol reagents in Beckman and Coulter, AU 480 auto analyser. Mann-Whitney U test was used to find statistical difference with respect to all clinical parameters such as PI, GI, CAL, PPD and salivary ALP levels. RESULTS: The mean ALP in saliva was found to be higher in Group II compared to Group I and the difference was statistically significant with the p-value of 0.008. CONCLUSION: A noteworthy increase in the ALP concentration was seen in saliva in our study (Group II) may be due to increased periodontal inflammation in post menopausal women. Thus salivary ALP can be taken as an additional biomarker to early diagnosis, development and progression of periodontitis especially among post menopausal women.

Comparative analysis of subgingival red complex bacteria in obese and normal weight subjects with and without chronic periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is one of the systemic conditions which influence the onset and progression of periodontal disease and it is stated that the metabolic changes associated with obesity may contribute to alteration in subgingival microbial flora. AIM: Our study was aimed to quantify and compare the red complex microorganisms in obese or overweight and normal weight participants with and without chronic periodontitis to identify obesity as a risk for the presence of red complex bacteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 120 participants of age between 20 and 45 years of both the sexes. According to periodontal status, the participants were categorized into four groups as follows: thirty overweight or obese individuals with generalized chronic periodontitis (Group I), thirty normal weight individuals with chronic periodontitis (Group II), thirty overweight or obese individuals with healthy periodontium (Group III), and thirty normal weight individuals with healthy periodontium (Group IV). After the assessment of periodontal parameters, subgingival plaque sample collection was carried out to quantify the red complex bacteria by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Increase in red complex bacterial count was seen in group I compared to other groups. A positive correlation of red complex bacteria with body mass index and waist circumference was seen in Group I and III. CONCLUSION: In our study, obese individuals with periodontal disease harbored increased red complex bacteria. This states that the obesity could be a risk for the colonization of red complex microorganisms, which in turn may further lead to periodontal inflammation.

Comparative Analysis of GCF Resistin Levels in Obese Subjects with and without Periodontal Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Resistin is an adipocyte derived hormone that has been shown to play a substantial role in the development of insulin resistance. Resistin acts as a pro-inflammatory molecule and stimulates the synthesis and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Recent studies have reported the association of Gingival Crevicular Fluid (GCF) resistin levels with periodontal condition. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess and compare the GCF resistin levels in obese subjects with periodontal health and disease and to correlate the disease severity with GCF resistin levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety subjects of both the sexes with age between 20-45 years were selected for the study and were categorized into four groups: 25 obese or overweight subjects with generalized chronic periodontitis (Group-I), 25 obese or overweight subjects with healthy periodontium (Group-II), 25 non-obese subjects with generalized chronic periodontitis (Group-III) and 15 non obese subjects with healthy periodontium (Group-IV). The demographic variables like age, Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC) were recorded and the clinical periodontal parameters such as Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) were also assessed in all the groups. GCF was collected and assessed for resistin levels. RESULTS: The mean GCF resistin levels in Groups I, II, III & IV were 15.14, 9.06, 12.74 and 5.41 ng/dl respectively and the difference in mean GCF resistin level was statistically significant with the p-value<0.001. The mean GCF resistin levels in Group-I was higher compared to Group II and III and the differences in mean GCF resistin levels were statistically significant. GCF resistin levels were positively correlated with BMI, WC and CAL in Group I and CAL correlated with GCF resistin in Group III and this correlation was statistically significant. CONCLUSION: From our study we report that obese subjects with periodontitis have more GCF resistin levels compared to non-obese subjects with healthy periodontium.

Evaluation of plasma reactive oxygen metabolites levels in obese subjects with periodontal disease.

BACKGROUND: Obesity represents the systemic condition capable of influencing the onset and progression of periodontal disease. Obesity is associated with oxidative stress. Plasma level of reactive oxidative metabolites (ROMs) is measured as an indicator of oxidative stress in the body. The aim of this study is to assess and compare the plasma ROM levels in obese subjects with healthy and inflammatory periodontal status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty subjects selected were grouped as 15 obese or overweight subjects with generalized chronic periodontitis, 15 obese or overweight subjects with generalized chronic gingivitis, 15 obese or overweight subjects with healthy periodontium, and 15 nonobese and healthy periodontium. The clinical periodontal parameters such as plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were measured. Blood samples were obtained to measure the plasma levels of ROM. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: In this study, obese subjects with chronic periodontitis (Group I) had mean plasma ROM levels (442.3 ± 15.65 Carratelli unit [CARR U]) showing 100% subjects with high oxidative stress. Obese subjects with chronic gingivitis (Group II) had mean plasma ROM levels (358.7 ± 20.61 CARR U) indicating 86.7% subjects with oxidative stress. Obese subjects with healthy periodontium (Group III) had 46.7% subjects with slight oxidative stress, and the mean ROM level was 320.2 ± 17.57. Nonobese subjects with healthy periodontium (Group IV) had 80% of subjects with normal oxidative stress and the mean plasma ROM level was 296.9 ± 20.35 CARR U. The intra- and inter-group comparison showed significant difference (P < 0.001). From our study, we report that obese subjects with periodontitis have more oxidative stress compared to obese subjects with healthy periodontium.

Multifactorial relationship of obesity and periodontal disease.

Obesity is a chronic disease of mutifactorial origin, where there is increase in body fat. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of tooth supporting tissues resulting in destruction of periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Periodontitis and obesity are both chronic health problems and the literature supports this association. A hyperinflammatory state observed in obesity is proposed as a mechanism to explain this association. This low grade inflammation in obese subjects triggers the worsening of non transmissible chronic diseases like periodontitis. So the aim of this article is to get the overview of association between adipose tissue derived cytokines and periodontal disease.

Comparative analysis of gingival crevicular fluid neopterin levels in health and periodontal disease: a biochemical study.

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis involves intricate interactions of the biofilm with the host immunoinflammatory response and subsequent alterations in bone and connective tissue homeostasis. Neopterin is a marker, belonging to the class of pteridines, which is associated with cell-mediated immunity. It is produced by interferon-γ stimulated macrophages. The levels of neopterin in body fluids are elevated in infections, autoimmune diseases, malignancies and allograft rejections. This investigation was designed to estimate the levels of neopterin in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in health, chronic gingivitis and chronic periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty subjects were divided into three groups of ten subjects each as with healthy periodontium (Group 1), chronic gingivitis (Group 2) and chronic periodontitis (Group 3). The GCF samples were obtained from the subjects by placing color-coded calibrated, volumetric, micro-capillary pipettes extracrevicularly. The samples were placed in plastic vials and stored at -70°C until the time of neopterin estimation using enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: The mean neopterin level in Group 3 (126.28 ± 37.70 nmol/L) is significantly higher than the mean neopterin level in Group 1 (48.66 ± 18.82 nmol/L) and Group 2 (70.68 ± 18.26 nmol/L) (P < 0.05). However, there is no significant relationship between neopterin levels and various clinical parameters in each study group (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study indicate that the neopterin levels in GCF are positively associated with periodontal disease, which may provide a useful tool in monitoring its progression. Nevertheless, further longitudinal studies are required with larger sample sizes in which neopterin levels are progressively estimated and compared to baseline values.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory effect of statins in chronic periodontitis.

OBJECTIVES: Statins are the group of lipid-lowering drugs commonly used to control cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Statins have potential anti-inflammatory effect by blocking the intermediate metabolites of the mevalonate pathway. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of statin medication in chronic periodontitis patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty patients of age group between 40 and 60 years were selected from the outpatient pool of Department of Periodontics, Thaimoogambigai Dental College and Hospital, Chennai. Thirty patients selected were grouped into two groups, Group-I consists of patients with generalized chronic periodontitis and on statin medication and Group-II consists of patients with generalized chronic periodontitis. Clinical parameters were recorded and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were analyzed for interleukin (IL)-1ß using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: The mean GCF IL-1ß levels in generalized chronic periodontitis patients who are on statin medication (Group-I) were lower than the generalized chronic periodontitis patients without statin medication (Group-II). CONCLUSION: Reduction of GCF IL-1ß levels in statin users indicate that statins have anti-inflammatory effect on periodontal disease.

Periodontitis and bone mineral density among pre and post menopausal women: A comparative study.

AIM: The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between bone mineral density and periodontitis in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty women between the age group of 45-55 years were selected for this study. Ten premenopausal women with healthy periodontium constituted the control group and 10 postmenopausal women with ≥2mm of clinical attachment loss in >30% of sites constituted the study group. All patients were assessed for plaque index, probing depth and clinical attachment loss. Radiographs (six IOPA and two posterior bitewing) were taken and assessed for interproximal alveolar bone loss. The patients were scanned to assess the bone mineral density of lumbar spine (L2) and femur using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). RESULTS: The bone mineral densities of lumbar spine (L2) and femur were significantly lower in the study group than the control group. Osteopenia of the lumbar spine and femur was observed in 60% whereas osteoporosis of lumbar spine was observed in 30% of cases in study group. CONCLUSION: Increased proportion of osteopenia and osteoporosis cases of lumbar spine and femur in postmenopausal women with periodontitis suggests that there is association between bone mineral density and periodontitis.