Self-perceived oral health and orofacial appearance in older adults - an 18-year follow-up study in Karlskrona, Sweden

OBJECTIVES

To analyze whether self-perceived oral health and orofacial appearance change with increasing age.

METHODS

This longitudinal study is based on data from a questionnaire used in the Swedish National Study of Aging and Care. The sample comprises 160 participants 60 years of age at baseline 2001-2003. The same participants were re-examined at 66-, 72-, and 78 years of age. To analyze whether perceptions of oral health and orofacial appearance changed with increasing age, Cochran's Q test was conducted. Statistical significance was considered at p  ≤  0.05, and the calculated value Q must be equal to or greater than the critical chi-square value (Q ≥ 7.82). Significance values have been adjusted for the Bonferroni correction for multiple tests.

RESULTS

Self-perceived mouth dryness, both day (Q = 7.94) and night (Q = 23.41), increased over the 18-year follow-up. When divided by gender, significant differences were only seen for mouth dryness at nighttime. A decrease in sensitive teeth was perceived with increasing age, and an increase in self-perceived satisfaction with dental appearance, and a decrease in self-perceived problems with dental gaps between the ages of 60 and 78. These changes were, however, not statistically significant. Men experienced a higher proportion of discomfort with discolored teeth at age 78 than at 60 (Q = 9.09).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-perceived oral health and orofacial appearance were relatively stable, with few changes over an 18-year follow-up.

A longitudinal analysis of the impact of nonsurgical and surgical treatment of peri-implantitis upon clinical parameters and implant stability quotient values. A 2-3-year follow-up

OBJECTIVES

In this study, the aim was to investigate the medium- to long-term impact of peri-implantitis treatment upon clinical parameters and implant stability quotient values and to ascertain if magnetic resonance frequency analysis can be used as a diagnostic tool to demonstrate postoperative healing following treatment of peri-implantitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of n = 26 patients (n = 86 implants) diagnosed with peri-implantitis were recruited for this prospective cohort study and four different treatment modalities were used. Baseline measurements of a number of clinical parameters as well as implant stability measurements in the form of ISQ were recorded. These measurements were repeated at 6, 12, and 24-36 months following treatment. Analysis of variance was performed for all implants treated as well as separately for each treatment modality. A regression model was also used to determine factors affecting ISQ measurements over time.

RESULTS

Treatment of peri-implantitis resulted in significant improvements of both average PPDs and BOP (p < .0001 and p < .01). ISQ values marginally improved initially for all treatment modalities, but improvement was only maintained for 2-3 years in treatment modalities I (+1.28), III (+1.49), and IV (+2.92). There was a statistically significant negative linear correlation between average PPD and the ISQ values recorded both at baseline (r = -.618, p < 0.0001) and at 2/3 years (r = -.604, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Over the 2-3-year follow-up period, all four treatment modalities led to improved clinical and radiographic peri-implant parameters but implant stability posttreatment, as indicated by the fact that the recorded ISQ scores remained stable. As a result, use of MRFA as an adjunct to the traditionally used periodontal and radiographic tools for the evaluation of postoperative implant stability following the treatment of peri-implant disease cannot be recommended.

Results of objective brushing data recorded from a powered toothbrush used by elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment related to values for oral health

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to investigate how the objective use of a powered toothbrush in frequency and duration affects plaque index, bleeding on probing, and periodontal pocket depth ≥ 4 mm in elderly individuals with MCI. A second aim was to compare the objective results with the participants' self-estimated brush use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Objective brush usage data was extracted from the participants' powered toothbrushes and related to the oral health variables plaque index, bleeding on probing, and periodontal pocket depth ≥ 4 mm. Furthermore, the objective usage data was compared with the participants' self-reported brush usage reported in a questionnaire at baseline and 6- and 12-month examination.

RESULTS

Out of a screened sample of 213 individuals, 170 fulfilled the 12-month visit. The principal findings are that despite the objective values registered for frequency and duration being lower than the recommended and less than the instructed, using powered toothbrushes after instruction and information led to improved values for PI, BOP, and PPD ≥ 4 mm in the group of elderly with MIC.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite lower brush frequency and duration than the generally recommended, using a powered toothbrush improved oral health. The objective brush data recorded from the powered toothbrush correlates poorly with the self-estimated brush use.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Using objective brush data can become one of the factors in the collaboration to preserve and improve oral health in older people with mild cognitive impairment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05941611, retrospectively registered 11/07/2023.

Self-perceived oral health and orofacial appearance in an adult population, 60 years of age

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to compare self-perceived oral health and orofacial appearance in three different cohorts of 60-year-old individuals.

METHOD

A cross-sectional design, based on data obtained from a questionnaire used in the Swedish National Study of Aging and Care. The sample comprised 478 individuals, from baseline, 2001-2003 (n = 191), 2007-2009 (n = 218) and 2014-2015 (n = 69). Comparisons were made within and between the cohorts, with bivariate analysis and Fisher's exact test. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The result showed that a low number of the participants reported self-perceived problems with oral health. Of the problems reported, a higher proportion in cohort 2014-2015 (39.3%) experienced problems with bleeding gums. The experience of bleeding gums increased between the cohorts 2001-2003 and 2014-2015 (p = 0.040) and between 2007-2009 and 2014-2015 (p = 0.017). The prevalence of discomfort with sensitive teeth was experienced in 7%-32%. Twice as many women compared to men experienced discomfort in all cohorts (no significant differences between the cohorts). Satisfaction with dental appearance was experienced in 75%-84%. Twice as many women compared to men were dissatisfied with their dental appearance in 2001-2003 (p = 0.011) and with discoloured teeth (p = 0.020). No significant differences could be seen between the cohorts regarding discomfort with dental appearance or discoloured teeth.

CONCLUSION

The 60-year-olds irrespective of birth cohort, perceived their oral health and orofacial appearance as satisfactory.

Antibodies against Porphyromonas gingivalis in serum and saliva and their association with rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis. Data from two rheumatoid arthritis cohorts in Sweden

Background

Periodontitis and oral pathogenic bacteria can contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A connection between serum antibodies to Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and RA has been established, but data on saliva antibodies to P. gingivalis in RA are lacking. We evaluated antibodies to P. gingivalis in serum and saliva in two Swedish RA studies as well as their association with RA, periodontitis, antibodies to citrullinated proteins (ACPA), and RA disease activity.

Methods

The SARA (secretory antibodies in RA) study includes 196 patients with RA and 101 healthy controls. The Karlskrona RA study includes 132 patients with RA ≥ 61 years of age, who underwent dental examination. Serum Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies and saliva IgA antibodies to the P. gingivalis-specific Arg-specific gingipain B (RgpB) were measured in patients with RA and controls.

Results

The level of saliva IgA anti-RgpB antibodies was significantly higher among patients with RA than among healthy controls in multivariate analysis adjusted for age, gender, smoking, and IgG ACPA (p = 0.022). Saliva IgA anti-RgpB antibodies were associated with RA disease activity in multivariate analysis (p = 0.036). Anti-RgpB antibodies were not associated with periodontitis or serum IgG ACPA.

Conclusion

Patients with RA had higher levels of saliva IgA anti-RgpB antibodies than healthy controls. Saliva IgA anti-RgpB antibodies may be associated with RA disease activity but were not associated with periodontitis or serum IgG ACPA. Our results indicate a local production of IgA anti-RgpB in the salivary glands that is not accompanied by systemic antibody production.

Use of a powered toothbrush to improve oral health in individuals with mild cognitive impairment

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study is to investigate whether the use of a powered toothbrush could maintain oral health by reducing the dental plaque (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and periodontal pocket depth (PPD) ≥4 mm in a group of individuals with MCI and also if changes in oral health affect various aspects of quality of life.

BACKGROUND

People with cognitive impairment tend to have poor oral hygiene and poorer Quality of life. In the present study, the participants were asked to use a powered toothbrush for at least 2 min morning and evening and no restrictions were given against the use of other oral care products. The participant survey conducted at each examination demonstrated that 61.2% of participants at baseline claimed to have experience of using a powered toothbrush, 95.4% at 6 months and 95% after 12 months. At the same time, the use of manual toothbrushes dropped from 73.3% to 44.7% from baseline to the 12-month check-up. This shows that several participants continue to use the manual toothbrush in parallel with the powered toothbrush, but that there is a shift towards increased use of the powered toothbrush. Removal of dental biofilm is essential for maintaining good oral health. We investigated whether using a powered toothbrush reduces the presence of dental plaque, bleeding on probing and periodontal pockets ≥4 mm in a group of older individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred and thirteen individuals with the mean age of 75.3 years living without official home care and with a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score between 20 and 28 and a history of memory problems in the previous six months were recruited from the Swedish site of a multicenter project, Support Monitoring And Reminder Technology for Mild Dementia (SMART4MD) and screened for the study. The individuals received a powered toothbrush and thorough instructions on how to use it. Clinical oral examinations and MMSE tests were conducted at baseline, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy participants, 36.5% women and 63.5% men, completed a 12-month follow-up. The use of a powered toothbrush resulted, for the entire group, in a significant decrease in plaque index from 41% at baseline to 31.5% after 12 months (P < .000). Within the same time frame, the values for bleeding on probing changed from 15.1% to 9.9% (P < .000) and the percentage of probing pocket depths ≥4 mm from 11.5% to 8.2% (P < .004). The observed improvements in the Oral Health Impact Profile 14 correlate with the clinical improvements of oral health.

CONCLUSION

The use of a powered toothbrush was associated with a reduction of PI, BOP and PPD over 12 months even among individuals with low or declining MMSE score. An adequately used powered toothbrush maintain factors that affect oral health and oral health-related Quality of Life in people with mild cognitive impairment.

Reconstructive treatment of peri-implant defects-Results after three and five years

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term efficacy of reconstructive treatment of peri-implantitis intraosseous defects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Peri-implant intraosseous defects were augmented using either an autogenous bone graft (AB) or a bovine-derived xenograft (BDX) in combination with a collagen membrane. Maintenance was provided every third month.

RESULTS

In the AB group, 16 patients with 25 implants remained at year five. In the BDX group, 23 patients with 38 implants remained. Between baseline and year 5, bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing pocket depth (PPD) scores were reduced in both groups (p < .001). In the AB and BDX groups, mean PPD between baseline and year five was reduced by 1.7 and 2.8 mm, respectively. The difference between groups was significant (p < .001). In the AB group, the mean bone level change at implant level between baseline and years three and five was-0,2 and -0.7 mm, respectively. In the BDX group, the mean bone level change at implant level between baseline and years three and five was 1.6 and 1.6 mm, respectively. The difference between the groups was significant (p < .001). Successful treatment (no bone loss, no probing pocket depth (PPD) > 5 mm, no suppuration, maximum one implant surface with bleeding on probing (BOP) at year five) was obtained in 9/25 implants (36%) in the AB group and in 29/37 implants (78.3%) in the BDX group.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstructive surgical treatment of peri-implant defects using BDX resulted in more predictable outcomes than using autogenous bone over 5 years.

Strategies for implant surface decontamination in peri-implantitis therapy

Peri-implantitis is an infectious disease that leads to progressive bone loss. Surgical therapy has been advocated as a way of halting its progression and re-establishing peri-implant health. One of the most challenging but crucial tasks in the management of peri-implantitis is biofilm removal to achieve reosseointegration and promote the reduction of peri-implant pockets. A wide variety of strategies have been used for implant surface decontamination. Mechanical means have been demonstrated to be effective in eliminating calculus deposits and residual debris; however, the presence of undercuts and the grooves and porosities along the roughened implant surface make it difficult to achieve an aseptic surface. In conjunction with mechanical measures, use of chemical adjuncts has been advocated to dilute bacterial concentrations, destroy the bacteria's organic components and eliminate endotoxins. Pharmacological adjuncts have also been recommended to diminish the bacterial load. Other strategies, such as use of lasers, implantoplasty and electrolysis, have been suggested for implant surface decontamination to promote predictable clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Oral health status among 60-year-old individuals born in 1941-1943 and 1954-1955 and 81-year-old individuals born in 1922-1924 and 1933-1934, respectively: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the oral health status of four different birth cohorts: two cohorts of 60-year-olds born in 1941-1943 and 1954-1955 and 2 cohorts of 81-year-olds born in 1920-1922 and 1933-1934.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was based on data from an ongoing longitudinal population project, The Swedish National Study on Aging and Care (SNAC). Oral health status was repeatedly examined clinically and radiographically in 2001-2003 and 2014-2015, including 60- and 81-year-olds, in total 412 individuals. Statistical analyses were performed using independent-samples t test and Pearson's χ² test.

RESULTS

More individuals were dentate in 2014-2015 compared to 2001-2003 in the two age groups: 60 and 81 years (p < 0.001 for both). The mean number of teeth increased in the 60-year-olds from 24.2 to 27.0 and in the 81-year-olds from 14.3 to 20.2. The numbers of at least one intact tooth increased for both age groups (p < 0.001 and p < 0.004, respectively). In the age groups 81 years, there was an increase in having at least one PPD ≥ 6 mm (p < 0.016) and bone loss ≥ 5 mm (p < 0.029) between the two examinations. No such differences were found in the age groups of 60 years.

CONCLUSION

Over 13 years, oral health improved for both 60- and 81-year-old age groups. The most significant changes were in the 81-year-olds where oral health had improved except for periodontal status.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

More natural teeth and impaired periodontal status potentially impact oral health and should increase focus on preventive and supportive dental care in older individuals.

Significance of probing for monitoring peri-implant diseases

Peri-implant diseases at implant sites represent the most considerable concern for many dental clinicians nowadays due to their detrimental effect on implant longevity. Preventive measures include patient education and motivation, supportive peri-implant therapy and routine assessment of the hard and soft tissues. Nevertheless, the reliability of clinical parameters to monitor peri-implant conditions is subject to debate. As such, the primary purpose of the present review was to gain further insight into the diagnostic accuracy of probing as a clinical tool to monitor dental implants and assist clinicians in preventing peri-implant diseases. Studies have recommended periodic probing to monitor the condition of the peri-implant tissues. Increased probing pocket depth, profuse bleeding on probing and suppuration at implants are clinical signs that have been associated with peri-implantitis; thus, if these clinical parameters are present, radiographic assessment is encouraged to make a definitive diagnosis considering potential inaccuracies related to local and/or systemic factors identified in the present review.

Peri-Implant Health and the Knowing-Doing Gap—A Digital Survey on Procedures and Therapies

Objectives: Peri-implant tissue maintenance and treatment is becoming a serious challenge in implantology. With increasing numbers of implants being placed, more cases of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis is seen. A digital survey on peri-implant disease management was issued to experts in periodontology and implantology to identify the tools and procedures most commonly used today to treat peri-implant diseases and successfully manage peri-implant health. The primary aim was to assess whether there is consensus in the choice of treatment to manage peri-implant diseases and to prevent their recurrence once treated. The secondary aim was to obtain insight into future protocols and /or devices, and the research and development needed.

Materials and Methods: Participants in this digital survey were professionals specialising in periodontology, oral surgery, and implant dentistry. The questionnaire included both a series of closed- and open-ended questions. A total of 16 countries participated. The survey was sent by e-mail to 70 individuals, 66 received the survey and 37 of receivers responded, two of the participants were excluded due to insufficient filling of the survey. In the end 35 respondents completed the survey.

Results: Respondents agree that the efficacy of mechanical and chemical decontamination of implant surfaces needs to be improved and better documented. It is a common opinion that the current remedies, mostly adapted from periodontal practises, do not provide effective and reliable clinical outcomes when treating peri-implant ailments. There is a general agreement amongst experts that regularly scheduled (3–6-month intervals) maintenance treatments are essential for maintaining peri-implant health in patients experiencing implant complications. Respondents are also concerned about unnecessary use of systemic antibiotics for managing peri-implant health.

Conclusion: Regardless of agreements in parts, there was no observed consensus on the most effective treatment options for treating peri-implantitis. The experts all agree it is an urgent need for well-designed, long-term follow-up randomised and controlled clinical trials comparing interventions to provide an evidence-based strategy for peri-implant health management.

Surgical treatment of peri-implantitis with or without a deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a native bilayer collagen membrane: A randomized clinical trial

AIM

To assess whether the use of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) and native bilayer collagen membrane (NBCM) improved healing of peri-implantitis-related bone defects at 12 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a multi-centre, randomized clinical trial, 32 individuals received surgical debridement (control group [CG]), and 34 received adjunct use of DBBM and NBCM (test group [TG]). Radiographic defect fill (RDF), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), suppuration (SUP), recession (REC), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-1RA, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IP10, PDGF-BB, TNF-α, VEGF), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were evaluated at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

RESULTS

RDF at the deepest site amounted 2.7 ± 1.3 mm in TG and 1.4 ± 1.2 mm in CG (p <.0001). PPD was reduced by 1.9 mm in TG and 2.3 mm in CG (p = .5783). There were no significant differences between groups regarding reductions of BOP, SUP, REC, cytokines levels, or oral health impact profile (OHIP)-14 scores at 12 months. Successful treatment (RDF ≥ 1.0 mm, PPD ≤5 mm, ≤1/4 site with BOP grade 1, no SUP) was identified in 32% in TG and 21% in CG.

CONCLUSIONS

DBBM and NBCM resulted in significantly more RDF than debridement alone. No difference was found in any clinical parameters or PROs between the groups. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02375750.

Periodontitis related to cardiovascular events and mortality: a long-time longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

The present study assessed if individuals ≥ 60 years of age with periodontitis are more likely to develop stroke or ischemic heart diseases, or at a higher risk of death for 17 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

At baseline individuals ≥ 60 received a dental examination including a panoramic radiograph. Periodontitis was defined as having ≥ 30% sites with ≥ 5-mm distance from the cementoenamel junction to the marginal bone level. Medical records were annually reviewed from 2001 to 2018. Findings from the medical records identifying an ICD-10 code of stroke and ischemic heart diseases or death were registered.

RESULTS

Associations between periodontitis and incidence of ischemic heart disease were found in this 17-year follow-up study in all individuals 60-93 years (HR: 1.5, CI: 1.1-2.1, p = 0.017), in women (HR: 2.1, CI: 1.3-3.4, p = 0.002), and in individuals 78-96 years (HR: 1.7, CI: 1.0-2.6, p = 0.033). Periodontitis was associated with mortality in all individuals (HR: 1.4, CI: 1.2-1.8, p = 0.002), specifically in men (HR: 1.5, CI: 1.1-1.9, p = 0.006) or in ages 60-72 years (HR: 2.2, CI: 1.5-3.2, p = 0.000). Periodontitis was more prevalent among men (OR: 1.8, CI: 1.3-2.4, p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with periodontitis have an increased risk for future events of ischemic heart diseases and death.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Improving periodontal health in older individuals may reduce overall mortality and ischemic heart diseases. Both dental and medical professionals should be aware of the associations and ultimately cooperate.

Cytokines in gingival crevicular fluid in elderly rheumatoid arthritis patients in a population-based cross-sectional study: RANTES was associated with periodontitis

Objective

We studied cytokines in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in a cross‐sectional population‐based cohort of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients ≥61 years of age with and without a diagnosis of periodontitis.

Background data

Earlier studies on cytokines in GCF in RA patients have not given clear results.

Methods

In a population‐based cross‐sectional study of patients ≥61 years of age, 233 RA patients were identified. 132 (57%) dentate RA patients participated. All participants received rheumatological and dental examinations, and had a panoramic radiograph taken. GCF was sampled on each patient. Interleukins 1‐β (IL‐1β), IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐17A, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), and chemokines RANTES/CCL5, eotaxin and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP‐1) were analyzed in GCF. These cytokines were stratified for periodontitis, age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and anti‐cyclic citrullinated protein (anti‐CCP) status. Binary logistic regression analyses with periodontitis as outcome were performed adjusting for the above mentioned confounding factors including anti‐rheumatic medication, disease duration and the cytokine in question.

Results

Periodontitis was diagnosed in 80/132 (61%) of study participants. The 110 RA patients not participating were older, had a higher mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), had a higher mean DAS28ESR (Disease Activity Score 28 using ESR) and were less often on biologic treatment. Only RANTES was associated with periodontitis (p = .049, OR 1.001, 95% CI 1.000–1.002) in the binary logistic regression analyses.

Conclusion

In this population‐based elderly RA cohort, neither pro‐inflammatory nor anti‐inflammatory cytokines in GCF were clearly associated with a diagnosis of periodontitis.

Two- and ten-year follow-up of patients responding and non-responding to the surgical treatment of peri-implantitis: A retrospective evaluation

OBJECTIVES

To report a follow-up of patients following the surgical anti-infective treatment of peri-implantitis and to identify possible risk indicators for the progression of disease during supportive peri-implant therapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Following peri-implant surgery, 41 patients (213 implants) were enrolled in a supportive peri-implant therapy. At the 2-year follow-up, two groups of patients were identified, with or without residual peri-implant pockets (responding and non-responding group). Eighteen patients (85 implants) of the non-responding group were followed for further 8 years.

RESULTS

At the 2-year examination, 73 of the 117 treated implants (62.4%) presented healthy peri-implant condition, while 44 (37.6%) presented persisting peri-implantitis associated with substantial bone loss before treatment. The 10-year examination of the non-responding group revealed that 1) 84% of the implants that regained health following surgery remained healthy during the entire observation period; 2) 66% of the implants with residual pockets following surgery maintained stable peri-implant condition; and 3) 29% of all treated implants showed disease progression, and 11 of those were extracted. Presence of pockets at 3-4 sites of the implants was identified as risk indicator for progression of peri-implantitis.

CONCLUSION

The peri-implant health achieved following therapy was maintained for most of the implants during the follow-up. Residual pockets were a frequent finding at implants with substantial bone loss before treatment. Presence of pockets around the entire circumference of the implants resulted as a risk indicator for further disease progression. The probability of progression of peri-implant disease increased with increased observation time.

Evaluation of the FDI Chairside Guide for Assessment of Periodontal Conditions: A Multicentre Observational Study

Objective

There is a need to develop easy-to-use tools to screen for periodontal conditions in daily practice. This study aimed to evaluate the FDI World Dental Federation “Chairside Guide” (FDI-CG) developed by the Task Team of the FDI Global Periodontal Health Project (GPHP) as a potential tool for screening.

Methods

Databases from 3 centres in Germany, Hong Kong, and Spain (n = 519) were used to evaluate the association of the FDI-CG and its individual items with the periodontitis case definitions proposed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) for population-based surveillance of periodontitis.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed among the databases for the prevalence of periodontitis and the items included in the FDI-CG. The FDI-CG score and its individual components were significantly associated with the periodontal status in the individual databases and the total sample, with bleeding on probing showing the strongest association with severe periodontitis (odds ratio [OR] = 12.9, 95% CI [5.9; 28.0], P < .001, for those presenting bleeding on probing >50%), followed by age (OR = 4.8, 95% CI [1.7; 4.2], P = .004, for those older than 65 years of age). Those subjects with a FDI-CG score >10 had an OR of 54.0 (95% CI [23.5; 124.2], P < .001) and presented with severe periodontitis. A significant correlation was found between the different FDI-CG scoring categories (mild, moderate, and severe) and the categories for mild, moderate, and severe periodontitis using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Periodontology criteria (r = 0.57, Spearman rank correlation test, P < .001).

Conclusion

The FDI Chairside Guide may represent a suitable tool for screening the periodontal condition by general practitioners in daily dental practice.

Multivariate analysis of the influence of peri-implant clinical parameters and local factors on radiographic bone loss in the posterior maxilla: a retrospective study on 277 dental implants

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether peri-implant clinical parameters (modified plaque index (mPI), bleeding and/or suppuration on probing (B/SOP)) and local factors (type of prostheses, screw emergence, platform diameter, and abutment angulation) might contribute to the development of additional bone loss and peri-implantitis around dental implants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred seventy-seven external hex connection implants placed in the posterior maxilla of 124 patients were retrospectively evaluated. They were divided into two groups: physiologic bone loss < 2 mm (PBL) or additional bone loss ≥ 2 mm (ABL). GEE logistic regression was applied to evaluate the influence of type of prostheses (implant-supported single crown (ISSC), fixed partial denture (ISFPD), and full denture (ISFD)) and clinical parameters (mPI and S/BOP) on bone loss.

RESULTS

Among the 277 implants, 159 (57.4%) presented PBL and 118 (42.6%) presented ABL. Within the ABL group, 20.6% implants were diagnosed with peri-implantitis. mPI significantly correlated with the type of prosthesis and the highest value of mPI (index = 3) was observed in ISFD (23.8%). Moreover, peri-implantitis was more frequently associated with ISFD (32.79%) than ISSC and ISFDP (13.79% and 13.48, respectively) CONCLUSIONS: ISFD in the posterior maxilla presented high rates of ABL and showed a higher prevalence of peri-implantitis. None of the local factors seemed to contribute to the development of these conditions. Further investigations are needed to prospectively support the results of the present study.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Patients rehabilitated with ISFD should be carefully monitored and have more frequent maintenance visits to prevent or control peri-implant bone loss.

A Prospective Study Comparing the Effect of L-PRF and Porous Titanium Granules on the Preservation of the Buccal Bone Plate Following Immediate Implant Placement

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of an autogenous blood concentrate (L-PRF) with the effect of white porous titanium granules (WPTG) on buccal bone remodeling. These materials were used to graft the void between the implant and the buccal bone following immediate implant placement. Clinical measurements were made at two time points, and the mean buccal bone horizontal dimension at placement was 2.94 ± 0.59 mm for L-PRF and 3.49 ± 0.99 mm for WPTG. At reentry, the values were 1.19 ± 0.90 mm and 2.12 ± 0.87 mm, respectively. Overall, there was no difference observed in the performance of the two materials regarding buccal bone resorption.

The association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease in a population-based cross-sectional case-control study

Background

The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis remains unclear.

Methods

We studied oral health and periodontitis in a population-based case-control study of individuals with ≥10 remaining teeth ≥61 years of age and either with, or without a diagnosis of RA. 126 dentate individuals with RA were recruited together with age-matched control individuals without RA. The control individuals were recruited from the general population from the same city (n = 249). A dental examination including a panoramic radiograph was performed on all participants. All individuals with RA were examined and medical records were reviewed by a rheumatologist. In the control group, none of the participants presented with symptoms of RA and their medical records were also negative.

Results

The RA group included more women (66.7% vs. 55.8%) (p < 0.01). Individuals in the RA group had a higher body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001). A diagnosis of periodontitis was more common in the RA group (61.1%) than in the control group (33.7%) (p = 0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis identified that a BMI > 25 (OR 6.2, 95% CI 3.6, 10.5, p = 0.000), periodontitis (OR 2.5 95% CI 1.5, 4.2 p = 0.000), and female gender (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3–4.0, p = 0.003) were associated with RA.

Conclusion

RA was associated a diagnosis of periodontitis.

The Underestimated Problem of Intra-Oral Halitosis in Dental Practice: An Expert Consensus Review

Approximately 90% of halitosis cases originate within the oral cavity (intra-oral halitosis). With a focus on intra-oral halitosis, this narrative review article provides a current summary of the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of halitosis and discusses practical considerations for healthcare professionals (HCPs), including dentists, dental hygienists, general practitioners, community pharmacists, nurses and medical specialists. MEDLINE and PubMed were searched up to 31 December 2019. Additional information was sourced from reference lists of relevant published literature. Full-text articles which reported on the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of halitosis were considered for inclusion. Halitosis affects substantial numbers of individuals globally and is an underestimated problem in dental practice. Current estimates of the prevalence of halitosis, in addition to diagnostic methods and management considerations for halitosis, are discussed. Although not a life-threatening condition, halitosis has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life and can result in psychological consequences including social, professional and affective limitations. Using a simple step-wise approach for diagnosis and treatment, dentists and dental hygienists are ideally placed to respond to an initial consultation for halitosis.

Periodontal conditions, retinopathy, and serum markers in individuals with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetes is high and increasing. Periodontitis has been identified as a risk factor in both type 1 and 2 diabetes. The study purpose was to assess periodontal conditions, retinopathy, and serum glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA) titers in relation to retinopathy in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

The study is a case series. Adult individuals with a diagnosis of T1D (n = 85) monitored ≥5 years were recruited from an endocrinology clinic. Peripheral venous blood samples were analyzed including assessments of serum HbA1c levels and GADA titers. Medical and periodontal conditions were examined, and the data assessed. Independent t tests, binary and multivariate analyses, χ² and odds ratios were employed.

RESULTS

Gingivitis was found in 68.2%, periodontitis in 21.2%, and retinopathy in 64.7%, GADA (≥35 U/mL) in 54.1%, and serum HbA1c > 48 mmol/mol in 94.3% of the individuals. The unadjusted odds ratio for periodontitis to differentiate a diagnosis of retinopathy was 7.3 (95%CI 1.6, 4.4, P <0.01). Multivariate analyses identified the following dependent factors to differentiate retinopathy; age, T1D duration, gingivitis, periodontitis at P < 0.001, sex, and serum GADA at P < 0.01, and by the number of remaining teeth at P < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

Retinopathy as a complication to T1D is linked to the duration of diabetes, age of the individual and with increasing severity to periodontitis. Periodontal intervention studies are warranted.

Antibodies to citrullinated peptides in serum and saliva in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their association to periodontitis

OBJECTIVES

A connection between prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis has been reported. The hypothesis for this association involves increased citrullination in the oral mucosa in patients with periodontitis. Whether ongoing periodontitis has an effect on IgA antibodies to citrullinated peptides (ACPA) in saliva is unknown. We studied IgA ACPA in saliva and serum and their relation to periodontitis and smoking in a population-based elderly RA cohort.

METHODS

A population-based cohort of patients with RA ≥61 years of age (n=132) was examined by rheumatologists and a dental hygienist. Analyses of IgG ACPA in serum and IgA ACPA in serum and saliva were performed. The presence of ACPA was compared in patients with RA with and without periodontitis.

RESULTS

IgA ACPA in serum occurred in 35% of RA patients with periodontitis and in 43% of RA patients without periodontitis (p=0.740). IgG ACPA in serum was found in 66% of RA patients with periodontitis, and in 69% without periodontitis (p=0.740). IgA ACPA in saliva occurred in 20% with periodontitis and 55% without periodontitis (p=0.062). A logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, gender and smoking gave an odds ratio (OR) of 0.456 (95% CI=0.183-1.137, p=0.092) for saliva IgA ACPA positive individuals to have periodontitis.

CONCLUSIONS

IgA ACPA in serum or saliva was not more common in RA patients with periodontitis. This implies that local production of ACPA by the oral mucosa is not enhanced by periodontal inflammation, in patients with established RA.

Impact of bone defect morphology on the outcome of reconstructive treatment of peri-implantitis

OBJECTIVES

To assess if (I) the alveolar bone defect configuration at dental implants diagnosed with peri-implantitis is related to clinical parameters at the time of surgical intervention and if (II) the outcome of surgical intervention of peri-implantitis is dependent on defect configuration at the time of treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a prospective study, 45 individuals and 74 dental implants with ≥ 2 bone wall defects were treated with either an autogenous bone transplant or an exogenous bone augmentation material. Defect fill was assessed at 1 year.

RESULTS

At baseline, no significant study group differences were identified. Most study implants (70.7%, n = 53) had been placed in the maxilla. Few implants were placed in molar regions. The mesial and distal crestal width at surgery was greater at 4-wall defects than at 2-wall defects (p = 0.001). Probing depths were also greater at 4-wall defects than at 2-wall defects (p = 0.01). Defect fill was correlated to initial defect depth (p < 0.001). Defect fill at 4-wall defects was significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

(I) The buccal-lingual width of the alveolar bone crest was explanatory to defect configuration, (II) 4-wall defects demonstrated more defect fill, and (III) deeper defects resulted in more defect fill.

Risk indicators for mucositis and peri-implantitis: results from a practice-based cross-sectional study

Purpose

This practice-based cross-sectional study aimed to investigate whether common risk indicators for peri-implant diseases were associated with peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis in patients undergoing supportive implant therapy (SIT) at least 5 years after implant restoration.

Methods

Patients exclusively restored with a single implant type were included. Probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), suppuration, and radiographic bone loss (RBL) were assessed around implants. The case definitions were as follows: peri-implant mucositis: PPD ≥4 mm, BOP, no RBL; and peri-implantitis: PPD ≥5 mm, BOP, RBL ≥3.5 mm. Possible risk indicators were compared between patients with and without mucositis and peri-implantitis using the Fisher exact test and the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, as well as a multiple logistic regression model for variables showing significance (P<0.05).

Results

Eighty-four patients with 169 implants (observational period: 5.8±0.86 years) were included. A patient-based prevalence of 52% for peri-implant mucositis and 18% for peri-implantitis was detected. The presence of 3 or more implants (odds ratio [OR], 4.43; 95 confidence interval [CI], 1.36-15.05; P=0.0136) was significantly associated with an increased risk for mucositis. Smoking was significantly associated with an increased risk for peri-implantitis (OR, 5.89; 95% CI, 1.27-24.58; P=0.0231), while the presence of keratinized mucosa around implants was associated with a lower risk for peri-implantitis (OR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.01-0.25; P<0.001).

Conclusions

The number of implants should be considered in strategies to prevent mucositis. Furthermore, smoking and the absence of keratinized mucosa were the strongest risk indicators for peri-implantitis in patients undergoing SIT in the present study.

Periodontitis and airflow limitation in older Swedish individuals

AIM

To investigate whether there was an association between periodontitis and airflow limitation in older Swedish individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study individuals were randomly selected from the Swedish civil registration database representing the ageing population in Karlskrona, Sweden. Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed, alongside which participants completed questionnaires gathering information on their medical history, social circumstances, demographic background and tobacco use. A physical examination assessed anthropometric measures. Standard spirometry was performed to identify subjects with airflow limitation. Periodontitis was defined based on radiographic periodontal bone loss. Analysis included multiple logistic regression with adjustment for various confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 826 Caucasian dentate subjects were included in the analysis. The median age of participants was 73.2 (IQR 66-81) years, and 443 (54.6%) subjects were female. Eighty-six (10.4%) individuals presented with airflow limitation. The proportion of participants presenting with periodontitis in the airflow limitation group was 65.1% compared to 41.5% with normal respiratory function (p < .001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that periodontitis was independently associated with airflow limitation with an odds ratio of 2.31 (95% CI 1.27-4.22) p < .01.

CONCLUSION

In this group of older dentate individuals, periodontitis was significantly associated with airflow limitation independent of other known risk factors.

Regeneration of alveolar ridge defects. Consensus report of group 4 of the 15th European Workshop on Periodontology on Bone Regeneration

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Bone augmentation procedures to enable dental implant placement are frequently performed. The remit of this working group was to evaluate the current evidence on the efficacy of regenerative measures for the reconstruction of alveolar ridge defects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The discussions were based on four systematic reviews focusing on lateral bone augmentation with implant placement at a later stage, vertical bone augmentation, reconstructive treatment of peri-implantitis associated defects, and long-term results of lateral window sinus augmentation procedures.

RESULTS

A substantial body of evidence supports lateral bone augmentation prior to implant placement as a predictable procedure in order to gain sufficient ridge width for implant placement. Also, vertical ridge augmentation procedures were in many studies shown to be effective in treating deficient alveolar ridges to allow for dental implant placement. However, for both procedures the rate of associated complications was high. The adjunctive benefit of reconstructive measures for the treatment of peri-implantitis-related bone defects has only been assessed in a few RCTs. Meta-analyses demonstrated a benefit with regard to radiographic bone gain but not for clinical outcomes. Lateral window sinus floor augmentation was shown to be a reliable procedure in the long term for the partially and fully edentulous maxilla.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluated bone augmentation procedures were proven to be effective for the reconstruction of alveolar ridge defects. However, some procedures are demanding and bear a higher risk for post-operative complications.

Peri-implant diseases and conditions: Consensus report of workgroup 4 of the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions

A classification for peri-implant diseases and conditions was presented. Focused questions on the characteristics of peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, peri-implantitis, and soft- and hard-tissue deficiencies were addressed. Peri-implant health is characterized by the absence of erythema, bleeding on probing, swelling, and suppuration. It is not possible to define a range of probing depths compatible with health; Peri-implant health can exist around implants with reduced bone support. The main clinical characteristic of peri-implant mucositis is bleeding on gentle probing. Erythema, swelling, and/or suppuration may also be present. An increase in probing depth is often observed in the presence of peri-implant mucositis due to swelling or decrease in probing resistance. There is strong evidence from animal and human experimental studies that plaque is the etiological factor for peri-implant mucositis. Peri-implantitis is a plaque-associated pathological condition occurring in tissues around dental implants, characterized by inflammation in the peri-implant mucosa and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone. Peri-implantitis sites exhibit clinical signs of inflammation, bleeding on probing, and/or suppuration, increased probing depths and/or recession of the mucosal margin in addition to radiographic bone loss. The evidence is equivocal regarding the effect of keratinized mucosa on the long-term health of the peri-implant tissue. It appears, however, that keratinized mucosa may have advantages regarding patient comfort and ease of plaque removal. Case definitions in day-to-day clinical practice and in epidemiological or disease-surveillance studies for peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis were introduced. The proposed case definitions should be viewed within the context that there is no generic implant and that there are numerous implant designs with different surface characteristics, surgical and loading protocols. It is recommended that the clinician obtain baseline radiographic and probing measurements following the completion of the implant-supported prosthesis.

Peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis: Case definitions and diagnostic considerations

The objective of this review is to identify case definitions and clinical criteria of peri-implant healthy tissues, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis. The case definitions were constructed based on a review of the evidence applicable for diagnostic considerations. In summary, the diagnostic definition of peri-implant health is based on the following criteria: 1) absence of peri-implant signs of soft tissue inflammation (redness, swelling, profuse bleeding on probing), and 2) the absence of further additional bone loss following initial healing. The diagnostic definition of peri-implant mucositis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri-implant signs of inflammation (redness, swelling, line or drop of bleeding within 30 seconds following probing), combined with 2) no additional bone loss following initial healing. The clinical definition of peri-implantitis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri-implant signs of inflammation, 2) radiographic evidence of bone loss following initial healing, and 3) increasing probing depth as compared to probing depth values collected after placement of the prosthetic reconstruction. In the absence of previous radiographs, radiographic bone level ≥3 mm in combination with BOP and probing depths ≥6 mm is indicative of peri-implantitis.

Peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis: Case definitions and diagnostic considerations

The objective of this review is to identify case definitions and clinical criteria of peri-implant healthy tissues, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis. The case definitions were constructed based on a review of the evidence applicable for diagnostic considerations. In summary, the diagnostic definition of peri-implant health is based on the following criteria: 1) absence of peri-implant signs of soft tissue inflammation (redness, swelling, profuse bleeding on probing), and 2) the absence of further additional bone loss following initial healing. The diagnostic definition of peri-implant mucositis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri-implant signs of inflammation (redness, swelling, line or drop of bleeding within 30 seconds following probing), combined with 2) no additional bone loss following initial healing. The clinical definition of peri-implantitis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri-implant signs of inflammation, 2) radiographic evidence of bone loss following initial healing, and 3) increasing probing depth as compared to probing depth values collected after placement of the prosthetic reconstruction. In the absence of previous radiographs, radiographic bone level ≥3 mm in combination with BOP and probing depths ≥6 mm is indicative of peri-implantitis.

Diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of peri-implant diseases and maintenance care of patients with dental implants - Consensus report of working group 3

The following consensus report is based on four background reviews. The frequency of maintenance visits is based on patient risk indicators, homecare compliance and prosthetic design. Generally, a 6-month visit interval or shorter is preferred. At these visits, peri-implant probing, assessment of bleeding on probing and, if warranted, a radiographic examination is performed. Diagnosis of peri-implant mucositis requires: (i) bleeding or suppuration on gentle probing with or without increased probing depth compared with previous examinations; and (ii) no bone loss beyond crestal bone level changes resulting from initial bone remodelling. Diagnosis of peri-implantitis requires: (i) bleeding and/or suppuration on gentle probing; (ii) an increased probing depth compared with previous examinations; and (iii) bone loss beyond crestal bone level changes resulting from initial bone remodelling. If diagnosis of disease is established, the inflammation should be resolved. Non-surgical therapy is always the first choice. Access and motivation for optimal oral hygiene are key. The patient should have a course of mechanical therapy and, if a smoker, be encouraged not to smoke. Non-surgical mechanical therapy and oral hygiene reinforcement are useful in treating peri-implant mucositis. Power-driven subgingival air-polishing devices, Er: YAG lasers, metal curettes or ultrasonic curettes with or without plastic sleeves can be used to treat peri-implantitis. Such treatment usually provides clinical improvements such as reduced bleeding tendency, and in some cases a pocket-depth reduction of ≤ 1 mm. In advanced cases, however, complete resolution of the disease is unlikely.

Longitudinal evaluation of periodontitis and tooth loss among older adults

AIM

To evaluate pattern of change in periodontal variables and tooth loss in a twelve-year follow-up study of older adults living in Sweden.

METHODS

In a prospective population study of older adults, a clinical examination and radiographic dental examination were performed at baseline (2001-2003) and after 12 years (2013-2015). In 375 individuals, the number and proportion of sites with a distance ≥4 mm and ≥5 mm from cemento-enamel junction to the bone level, the number and proportion of teeth with pockets ≥5 mm and number of teeth lost were calculated. Dental caries was registered. Periodontitis was defined as having ≥2 sites with ≥5 mm distance from cemento-enamel junction to the marginal bone level and ≥1 tooth with pockets ≥5 mm.

RESULTS

A diagnosis of periodontitis was evident in 39% of the individuals, and 23% of the individuals lost ≥3 teeth over the study period. The proportion of sites with ≥4 mm and ≥5 mm bone loss increased with age, while the proportion of teeth with pockets remained stable. Periodontitis was the strongest predictor for losing ≥3 teeth, OR 2.9 (p < .001) in the final model.

CONCLUSIONS

Periodontitis is a risk factor for future tooth loss among older adults.

The effect of a decontamination protocol on contaminated titanium dental implant surfaces with different surface topography in edentulous patients

Objectives: To investigate if it is possible to achieve complete decontamination of dental implant surfaces with different surface characteristics.Materials and methods: Twelve implant pieces with an Osseotite^® surface and 12 implant pieces with a Ti-Unite^® surface were attached on to the complete lower dentures of six patients and were allowed to accumulate plaque for 30 days. When retrieved, the implant decontamination protocol used, involved both mechanical (PeriBrush™) and chemical (3% H₂O₂) decontamination. The number of colony forming units per millilitre was determined and the dominant micro-organisms in selected samples was identified by 16s rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The effect of the titanium brush on the implant surface was examined by SEM.Results: Complete decontamination was achieved in five out of 24 implants (four Osseotite^® and one Ti-Unite^®). The mean CFU/ml detected after decontamination were 464.48 for Osseotite^® and 729.09 for Ti-Unite^® implants. On the surface of the implants in which complete decontamination was not achieved, all of the predominant bacteria identified were streptococci except for one which was identified as micrococcus. SEM images revealed that the surface features of the decontaminated implants were not significantly altered.Conclusions: Mechanical decontamination using a titanium brush supplemented with chemical treatment for one minute (3% H₂O₂) can achieve complete decontamination of implant surfaces in edentulous patients.

Dental caries and periodontal diseases in the ageing population: call to action to protect and enhance oral health and well-being as an essential component of healthy ageing - Consensus report of group 4 of the joint EFP/ORCA workshop on the boundaries between caries and periodontal diseases

BACKGROUND

Over the last two decades, progress in prevention and treatment of caries and periodontal diseases has been translated to better oral health and improved tooth retention in the adult population. The ageing population and the increasing expectations of good oral health-related quality of life in older age pose formidable challenges to clinical care and healthcare systems.

AIMS

The objective of this workshop was to critically review scientific evidence and develop specific recommendations to: (i) prevent tooth loss and retain oral function through prevention and treatment of caries and periodontal diseases later in life and (ii) increase awareness of the health benefits of oral health as an essential component of healthy ageing.

METHODS

Discussions were initiated by three systematic reviews covering aspects of epidemiology of caries and periodontal diseases in elders, the impact of senescence on caries and periodontal diseases and the effectiveness of interventions. Recommendations were developed based on evidence from the systematic reviews and expert opinion.

RESULTS

Key messages included: (i) the ageing population, trends in risk factors and improved tooth retention point towards an expected increase in the total burden of disease posed by caries and periodontal diseases in the older population; (ii) specific surveillance is required to monitor changes in oral health in the older population; (iii) senescence impacts oral health including periodontitis and possibly caries susceptibility; (iv) evidence indicates that caries and periodontal diseases can be prevented and treated also in older adults; (v) oral health and functional tooth retention later in life provides benefits both in terms of oral and general quality of life and in terms of preventing physical decline and dependency by fostering a healthy diet; (vi) oral healthcare professionals and individuals should not base decisions impacting tooth retention on chronological age but on level of dependency, life expectancy, frailty, comfort and quality of life; and (vii) health policy should remove barriers to oral health care for vulnerable elders.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus was reached on specific actionable priorities for public health officials, oral healthcare professionals, educators and workforce planners, caregivers and relatives as well as for the public and ageing patients. Some priorities have major implications for policymakers as health systems need to adapt to the challenge by systemwide changes to enable (promote) tooth retention later in life and management of deteriorating oral health in increasingly dependent elders.

Longitudinal evaluation of periodontitis and development of cognitive decline among older adults

AIM

To determine whether having periodontitis is associated with cognitive decline among older adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective population study of older adults, Swedish National Study on Ageing and Care, (SNAC) provided repeated registrations of cognitive functions. Cognitive decline was defined as ≥3-points deterioration from a predetermined level at baseline, using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Between 2001 and 2003, 715 individuals had a medical as well as a clinical and radiographic dental examination. The individuals were re-examined after 6 years. Periodontitis was defined as ≥4 mm bone loss at ≥30% of tooth sites. Social variables were captured from questionnaires.

RESULTS

The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between prevalence of periodontitis and cognitive decline after adjustments of confounding factors of importance.

CONCLUSIONS

A history of periodontitis may be of importance for cognitive functions among older adults.

Water and ethanol extracts of Plantago major leaves show anti-inflammatory activity on oral epithelial cells

Context

The leaves of Plantago major have been used for the treatment of wounds and inflammation in folk medicine from prehistoric times. However there is no report on the use of P. major to treat inflammation in oral epithelial cell lines.

Objective

The present study was undertaken to reveal possible anti-inflammatory effects of Plantago major leaf extracts on oral epithelial cells in-vitro.

Materials and methods

Water- and ethanol-based extracts of P. major leaves were prepared from freeze-dried plant material, and tested in-vitro using the oral epithelial cell line H400. The anti-inflammatory activity of P. major was tested against E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) using the nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-kB) assay.

Results

Both the water- and the ethanol-based extracts, as well as a combination of the two extracts, showed anti-inflammatory activity. A concentration of 0.1 mg/mL (on dry weight basis) yielded the best results for all extracts.

Discussion and conclusion

The results show that synergistic effects of both polyphenols and water-soluble compounds (possibly polysaccharides) are responsible for anti-inflammatory activities of P. major.

Peri-implant diseases and conditions: Consensus report of workgroup 4 of the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions

A classification for peri-implant diseases and conditions was presented. Focused questions on the characteristics of peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, peri-implantitis, and soft- and hard-tissue deficiencies were addressed. Peri-implant health is characterized by the absence of erythema, bleeding on probing, swelling, and suppuration. It is not possible to define a range of probing depths compatible with health; Peri-implant health can exist around implants with reduced bone support. The main clinical characteristic of peri-implant mucositis is bleeding on gentle probing. Erythema, swelling, and/or suppuration may also be present. An increase in probing depth is often observed in the presence of peri-implant mucositis due to swelling or decrease in probing resistance. There is strong evidence from animal and human experimental studies that plaque is the etiological factor for peri-implant mucositis. Peri-implantitis is a plaque-associated pathological condition occurring in tissues around dental implants, characterized by inflammation in the peri-implant mucosa and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone. Peri-implantitis sites exhibit clinical signs of inflammation, bleeding on probing, and/or suppuration, increased probing depths and/or recession of the mucosal margin in addition to radiographic bone loss. The evidence is equivocal regarding the effect of keratinized mucosa on the long-term health of the peri-implant tissue. It appears, however, that keratinized mucosa may have advantages regarding patient comfort and ease of plaque removal. Case definitions in day-to-day clinical practice and in epidemiological or disease-surveillance studies for peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis, and peri-implantitis were introduced. The proposed case definitions should be viewed within the context that there is no generic implant and that there are numerous implant designs with different surface characteristics, surgical and loading protocols. It is recommended that the clinician obtain baseline radiographic and probing measurements following the completion of the implant-supported prosthesis.

Periodontitis, tooth loss and cognitive functions among older adults

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the potential association between periodontitis, the number of teeth and cognitive functions in a cohort of older adults in Sweden.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In total, 775 individuals from 60 to 99 years of age were selected for the study. A clinical and radiographic examination was performed. The number of teeth and prevalence of periodontal pockets and bone loss was calculated and categorised. Cognitive functions were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and clock test. The education level was obtained from a questionnaire. Data were analysed using chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Age and gender were associated with the prevalence of bone loss. Age and education were associated with lower number of teeth. Gender was also associated with the presence of pockets. The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between prevalence of bone loss, the number of teeth and the outcome on MMSE test. This association remained even after adjustment for age, education and gender. Tooth loss was also associated with lower outcome on clock test. Presence of periodontal pockets ≥ 5 mm was not associated with cognitive test outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

A history of periodontitis and tooth loss may be of importance for cognitive functions among older adults.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Diseases with and inflammatory profile may have an impact on cognitive decline.

Dental status in nursing home residents with domiciliary dental care in Sweden

OBJECTIVE

To describe the dental health status of elderly people in nursing homes receiving domiciliary dental care.

DESIGN

Case note review.

CLINICAL SETTING

Nursing homes in 8 Swedish counties.

PARTICIPANTS

Care dependent elderly people (≥65 years).

METHODS

Clinical data, including the number of remaining natural teeth, missing and decayed teeth (manifest dental caries) and root remnants, recorded by dentists according to standard practices. Medical and dental risk assessments were performed.

RESULTS

Data were available for 20,664 patients. Most were women (69.1%), with a mean age of 87.1 years (SD 7.42, range 65-109). The mean age for men was 83.5 years (SD 8.12, range 65-105). Two or more medical conditions were present in most of the population. A total of 16,210 individuals had existing teeth of whom 10,974 (67.7%) had manifest caries. The mean number of teeth with caries was 5.0 (SD 5.93) corresponding to 22.8% of existing teeth. One in four individuals were considered to have a very high risk in at least one professional dental risk assessment category.

CONCLUSIONS

Care dependent elderly in nursing homes have very poor oral health. There is a need to focus on the oral health-related quality of life for this group of frail elderly during their final period of life.

The long-term effect of a zinc acetate and chlorhexidine diacetate containing mouth rinse on intra-oral halitosis-A randomized clinical trial

AIM

To evaluate the long-term effects of a zinc acetate and chlorhexidine diacetate mouth rinse (Zn/CHX) on intra-oral halitosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-six adults with intra-oral halitosis were randomized into a 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. The presence of intra-oral halitosis was evaluated at baseline, 3 and 6 months after treatment by assessment of organoleptic score (OLS) and by total volatile sulphur compounds (T-VSC), hydrogen sulphide (H₂ S) and methyl mercaptan (MM) concentrations in exhaled air.

RESULTS

A Zn/CHX mouth rinse provided significantly better control of intra-oral halitosis than a placebo mouth rinse. At 3 and 6 months, individuals rinsing with the Zn/CHX rinse presented with reductions of the OLS, T-VSC (p < .01, respectively), H₂ S (p < .001), and MM (p < .01) in subjects' exhaled air. At 6 months, 68.2% of individuals using the Zn/CHX rinse experienced a 1 or 2 category improvement in OLS compared with 19.1% of placebo-treated subjects. 91% of subjects in the Zn/CHX group were categorized as being effectively treated for intra-oral halitosis (i.e. H₂ S < 112 ppb), compared to 43% in the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Zn/CHX mouth rinse provides effective long-term efficacy against intra-oral halitosis, assessed both objectively and subjectively. With regular rinsing, the effect was sustained for 6 months.

Recommendations on the clinical application of air polishing for the management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis

Air polishing was introduced as an alternative approach for the supra- and submucosal biofilm management at dental implants. An international expert meeting involving competent clinicians and researchers took place during the EUROPERIO 8 conference in London, UK, on 4 June 2015. Prior to this meeting a comprehensive systematic review dealing with the efficacy of air polishing in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis was prepared and served as a basis for the group discussions. This paper summarizes the consensus statements and practical recommendations on the clinical application of air polishing for the management of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis.

The patient undergoing implant therapy. Summary and consensus statements. The 4th EAO Consensus Conference 2015

INTRODUCTION

The assignment for this working group was to update the existing knowledge regarding factors considered being of special relevance for the patient undergoing implant therapy. This included areas where conflicting opinions exists since long or recently has been expressed, like the role of antibiotic prophylaxis in dental implant surgery and peri-implantitis. Also areas with growing interest and concern such as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and health-economy was included in this review.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature in the respective areas of interest (antibiotic prophylaxis, peri-implantitis, patient-reported outcome measurements and health-economic aspects) was searched using different strategies for the different papers. Search strategies ranged from a complex systematic review to systematic- and narrative reviews, depending on subject and available literature. All collected material was critically reviewed. Four manuscripts were subsequently presented for group analysis and discussion and plenum discussions and concensus approval. The selected areas were considered to be of key importance and relevance for the patient undergoing implant therapy.

RESULTS

The results and conclusions of the review process are presented in the respective papers. The group's conclusions, identified knowledge gaps, directions for future research and concensus statements are presented in this article. The following reviews were available for group discussions and the foundation for subsequent plenary sessions: Lund B, Hultin M, Tranaeus S, Naimi-Akbar A, Klinge B. (2015) Perioperative antibiotics in conjunction with dental implant placement. A complex systematic review. Renvert S & Quirynen M. (2015) Risk indicators for peri-implantitis. A narrative review. De Bruyn H, Raes S, Matthys C, Cosyn J. (2015) The current use of patient centered/reported outcomes in implant dentistry. A systematic review. Beikler T & Flemmig T.F. (2015) Economic evaluation of implant-supported prostheses. A narrative review.

Impaired Cytotoxicity in Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome

Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome (PLS), palmoplantar hyperkeratosis with periodontitis, has been genetically characterized. However, suspected associated immune dysfunctions remain elusive. The purpose of this study was to evaluate peripheral blood lymphocyte levels and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity in PLS. Twenty patients and 20 healthy controls were examined. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry for surface markers. NK cell cytotoxicity against K562 cells was determined by means of a 51Cr release assay. White blood cell differential and proportions of B-, T-, T-helper, T-suppressor, and NK cells revealed only sporadic borderline variations from control values. In contrast, NK cell cytotoxicity was consistently and severely depressed (32–53% of control values) in all patients. To the best of our knowledge, this newly described impairment of NK cell cytotoxic function is the first consistent immune dysfunction reported in PLS. This suggests that the impaired NK cell cytotoxicity might contribute to the pathogenesis of PLS-associated periodontitis.