Influence of local factors on cementoenamel junction-alveolar bone crest distance in primary dentition

This study illustrated the influence of local factors (dental biofilm, gingival bleeding, probing depth, proximal contact and proximal caries/inadequate restorations) on the cementoenamel junction (CEJ)-alveolar bone crest (ABC) distance in primary canines and molars of healthy children with complete primary dentition. Two hundred and four patients have been examined clinically with regard to biofilm's presence, gingival status, probing depth, proximal contact and dental condition (carious lesions/restorations). Two bitewings of each patient were also taken. Eight dental surfaces (second molars mesial, first molars mesial and distal, and canines distal) could be analyzed per bitewing and the CEJ-ABC distance was measured using a digimatic caliper. Statistical analyses were controlled by dental arch, tooth type and surface. Mann-Whitney test was used to verify the association between CEJ-ABC distance and local factors. After stratifying the data according to those influencing factors, the only local factor associated with increased CEJ-ABC distances in most of the different analyzed dental surfaces was the increased probing depth (> 2mm), although only two dental surfaces showed statistical significance (p < 0.01). Among the analyzed local factors, increased probing depth was the only factor that proved to be relevant in children's alveolar bone loss screening.