Evaluating the Effects of Non-surgical Periodontal Treatment on Masticatory Function in Patients with Aggressive Periodontitis: A Preliminary Study

Introduction: Tooth loss is considered among the most common problems in patients with aggressive periodontitis. The loss of teeth heavily affects chewing ability and the neuromuscular control of mastication. Performing basic periodontal treatments have positive effect on the perseverance of teeth and subsequently the chewing ability. Aim: To evaluate the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on the objective measures of masticatory function in patients with aggressive periodontitis. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients (18-35 years of age) with generalised aggressive periodontitis were studied. Patients with 20 or more teeth in the oral cavity and normal occlusion on molar teeth were selected from the Department of Periodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Damascus University. Scaling and root planning alongside adjunctive chemical therapy (Ciprofloxacin+Metronidazole) was performed and bite-force registrations and Electromyography (EMG) records were determined on two occasions with three month intervals. Statistical analysis was done using paired samples t-test, independent samples t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: The overall improvement in the periodontal status following the non-surgical treatment was accompanied by a significant increase in bite-force (Newton) from 317.22 +/- 49.56 to 320.34 +/- 49.09, and a significant increase in EMG values from 347.01 +/- 51.81 to 351.74 +/- 50.65. Conclusion: Periodontal treatment demonstrated a positive effect on bite-force and EMG values after non-surgical periodontal treatment.