Attrition As A Risk Factor In Interdental Papillary Health

Abstract

Background: The interdental papilla that occupies the gingival embrasure plays a crucial role in maintaining the gingival health as it acts as a biological barrier and protects the underlying periodontal structures from microbial invasion and also has an important role in phonetics and aesthetics. The health of interdental papilla is influenced by various factors and dental attrition which is seen to have a high prevalence rate also influences the papillary health. Objective: To assess the relation and correlation between attrition and interdental papillary health. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted and data was collected from 55 samples. The participants were assessed clinically for Plaque Index, Sulcus Bleeding Index, Papilla Presence Index and Hooper et al.'s classification for tooth wear. The data was then subjected to statistical analysis and results were obtained. Results: The Plaque Index (P = 0.0041), Sulcus Bleeding Index (P < 0.0001) and Papillary Presence Index (P < 0.0001) was found to be positively correlated with the tooth wear index. Conclusion: As observed from this study, a positive correlation was found between tooth wear, Plaque Index, Sulcus Bleeding Index and Papilla Presence Index, hence is suggestive of a risk factor for periodontal health.