Risk factors for tooth loss and progression of periodontitis in patients undergoing periodontal maintenance therapy

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate patient- and tooth-level factors that may predict tooth loss and periodontitis progression in patients who have undergone at least 5 years of periodontal maintenance. Materials and Methods In this retrospective cohort study, 135 patients were examined after active periodontal therapy (APT) and periodontal maintenance for 5.09-8.65 years (mean 6.16 +/- 0.74 years). Regression models were applied to identify risk factors associated with tooth loss and disease progression. Results Stage IV periodontitis (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 4.61; 95% confidence interval, CI [2.97-7.18], p < .001), the presence of >= 5 sites with probing pocket depth (PPD) >= 5 mm at the end of APT (IRR = 2.04; 95% CI [1.32-3.20], p < .01), and residual PPD >= 7 mm at the end of APT (odds ratio [OR] = 3.01; 95% CI [1.14-7.94], p < .05) were risk factors for tooth loss. Residual PPDs of 5 mm (OR = 2.02; 95% CI [1.20-3.40], p < .01) and 6 mm (OR = 2.41; 95% CI [1.22-4.76], p < .05) at the end of APT were risk factors for disease progression. Above 3 mm, each 1 mm increase in maximum PPD/clinical attachment loss was associated with an increased risk of tooth loss and disease progression. Conclusions Stage IV periodontitis is associated with an increased risk of tooth loss. Teeth with PPD >= 5 mm at the end of APT are at risk of periodontitis progression or tooth loss.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to investigate the factors that may predict tooth loss and periodontitis progression in patients who have undergone at least 5 years of periodontal maintenance. The results showed that stage IV periodontitis, the presence of multiple sites with probing pocket depth (PPD) >= 5 mm, and residual PPD >= 7 mm were risk factors for tooth loss. Residual PPDs of 5 mm and 6 mm at the end of treatment were risk factors for disease progression. Each 1 mm increase in maximum PPD/clinical attachment loss was associated with an increased risk of tooth loss and disease progression.