Psychological features and hygiene habits in supportive periodontal therapy results

The goal of this study was to verify the hypothesis that psychological features are related to periodontal status and to inquire into the possible pathway through which it occurs. Twenty-six patients in good systemic health and only suffering from gingivitis were recruited and treated with an 18-month follow-up. Clinical recordings, including full-mouth plaque score (FMPS), full-mouth bleeding score (FMBS), were assessed at baseline and at three-monthly periods to the end of the follow-up period. Details on oral health, attitudes and oral hygiene habits were stated. Psychological profiling was stated. Unfavorable FMPS statistical outcome was found in correlation to anxiety (A) and depression (D). Using the oral hygiene self-reported test, we observed a favorable FMPS statistical significant outcome in relation to the number of daily brushings (DB), use of toothpaste (UT), awareness of role of dental plaque (ADP) and professional dental care (PDC) and need of dental examination (NDE). Moreover, we had a favorable FMBS outcome in relation to DB and ADP. Combining psychological and hygiene tests a favorable FMPS outcome was maintained in relation to UT, ADP, PDC and NDE. Favorable FMBS was maintained in relation to DB and ADP. The study supports the hypothesis that A and D can play an unfavorable role on the periodontal status. Most probably, but not exclusively, psychological features can influence hygienic behavior through discontinuity and irregularity. ISSN: 0303-6979 (Print) - 1600-051X (Electronic) Abstract N 197, Ref no: EUABS065594