Correlation of Periodontal Status and Salivary Flow in Patients with Oral Submucous Fibrosis in Central India Population: A Study Protocol

Background: One of the commonest premalignant condition is Oral Submucous Fibrosis. The main etiology is consumption of areca nut and its products which leads to reduced mouth opening (Trismus) and reduction in the salivary flow (Xerostomia). Both these conditions eventually result in periodontal destruction.

Objectives: The purpose of this research is to see if there is a link between periodontal health and salivary flow in OSMF patients.

Methodology: 50 patients each clinically diagnosed as chronic periodontitis with and without OSMF will be enrolled in test and control group respectively. Plaque Index, Papillary Bleeding Index, Probing Pocket Depth, Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL), Gingival Recession (REC) will be compared in both the group for assessment of the result. Saliva that has not been stimulated will be collected using a funnel in a calibrated beaker in both the groups.

Results: Patients with OSMF and chronic periodontitis will have reduced salivary flow and a compromised periodontal status whereas chronic periodontitis patients without OSMF will have normal salivary flow and comparatively less periodontal destruction.

Conclusion: OSMF is precancerous condition which leads to xerostomia and may result in periodontal destruction and therefore OSMF condition should be identified and treated as early as possible.