Occlusion and Periodontal Diseases

An interesting article was recently published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontics entitled The Association of Occlusal Contacts with the presence of increased periodontal probing depths written by Harrel, S and Nunn, M.

The study evaluates relationships in humans between various occlusal contacts and the presence of deeper probing depths, reduced width of keratinized tissue and less than favorable initial prognosis.  All comparisons were made on a tooth by tooth basis as opposed to a patient by patient comparison of patient means.

The following were noted to be associated with significantly deeper pocket probing depths: premature contacts in centric relation, posterior protrusive contacts, balancing contacts, combined working and balancing contacts and the length of slide between centric relation and centric occlusion.  Protrusive contacts on anterior teeth were significantly associated with shallower probing depths, and a wider zone of keratinized tissue.  Balancing contacts with and without working contacts and centric prematurities were all associated with an increased incidence of a less than “Good” prognosis.

In conclusion, based on these findings, the treatment of occlusal discrepancies as a routine part of periodontal treatment may be indicated.

These findings do support previous findings of this group.  They now have several well-designed articles on the relationship between occlusion and periodontal diseases.  I hope this article summary helps with your treatment planning.  If you have any questions please contact me.