Measurements of the optical density of the alveolar process bone tissue of the jaws during periodontal diseases with the use of three-dimensional computed tomography

Aim. To determine the optical density of the alveolar process bone tissue in normal conditions and during various forms of periodontal pathology. Methods. With the use of clinical and radiographic methods examined were 120 patients (with a healthy periodontium, with chronic generalized catarrhal gingivitis of moderate severity, with chronic periodontitis of a mild, moderate and severe degree). On the three-dimensional computer tomograms in each group of patients determined was the optical density of the alveolar process bone tissue from the medial and distal sides of the root of the following teeth 1.6, 1.7, 2.7, 2.6, 3.6, 3.7, 4.7, 4.6, 1.1, 3.1 (the teeth numbers have been recommended by the World Health Organization in order to determine the index of treatment needs of the periodontal disease), and studied were its changes depending on the severity of periodontal disease. Statistical analysis was performed using computer programs «Microsoft Excel», «Biostatistica». Results. In periodontal disease noted was a reduction in the optical density of bone tissue of the alveolar processes of the jaws with a firm relashionship with the severity of disease. In chronic generalized catarrhal gingivitis of moderate severity the optical bone density ranged from 40.445±1.264 to 633.744±5.226 arbitrary units, in mild forms of chronic generalized periodontitis - from -119.664±1.511 to 344.972±4.019, in moderate forms of chronic generalized periodontitis - from -232.589±3.088 to 203.841±1.604, in severe chronic generalized periodontitis - from -464.080±2.398 to -53.991±1.435 arbitrary units. Conclusion. Changes in optical density of bone tissue of the alveolar process of the jaws is an objective criterion for evaluating the status of periodontal tissues, an important diagnostic feature, which also makes it possible to predict the course of the disease and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

periodontal disease, optical density of bone tissue of the alveolar process, computed tomography