Lalla RV et al.

 

This is a prospective observational study, which aimed to evaluate the impact on periodontal parameters and the relationship between periodontal disease and dental caries in a patient population. More specifically, the patients had been diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma or salivary gland cancer and underwent external beam radiotherapy. Their periodontal and cariological parameters were recorded during a 24-month period. The study included 533 patents at baseline, 414 at the 12-month visit, and 365 after 24 months.

 

 

From the results, changes in pocket depth and clinical attachment loss can be perceived as limited, as pocket depth slightly decreased while clinical attachment loss slightly increased.  Considering this in relation to the prominent gingival recession, the apical migration of the gingival margin during the study period, provides an understanding of the results. A strong relation between the radiation therapy dose and the degree of gingival recession was seen, contributing to the increased risk for developing and progressing cervical caries. Thus, the authors underline the importance of bringing these findings into the dental care of this patient group.

 

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