Assessing Chronic Periodontal Disease Can Influence The Pulp Sensitivity: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic periodontitis is a progressive inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of teeth. Given the anatomical and vascular interconnections between the periodontium and dental pulp, periodontal inflammation may potentially impact pulp vitality and sensitivity.

Objective: This clinical study aimed to assess the influence of chronic periodontal disease on pulp sensitivity using thermal and electric pulp testing in periodontally compromised and healthy teeth.

Methodology: A total of 80 systemically healthy individuals aged 25–50 years were enrolled and divided into two groups: Group A (n=40) with chronic periodontitis (clinical attachment loss ≥4 mm and probing pocket depth ≥5 mm) and Group B (n=40) periodontally healthy controls. Thermal (cold) and electric pulp tests were conducted on mandibular first molars. Pulp response was recorded as positive (normal), delayed, or non-responsive. Data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square and independent t-tests.

Results: In Group A, 55% of teeth showed delayed pulp response and 25% were non-responsive, while 20% had normal response. In contrast, 90% of teeth in Group B had normal response. Mean threshold for electric pulp test was significantly higher in Group A (6.8 ± 1.2) compared to Group B (3.2 ± 0.9) (p < 0.001). Similarly, mean cold response time was prolonged in Group A (7.6 ± 2.4 seconds) compared to Group B (2.8 ± 1.1 seconds) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Chronic periodontal disease significantly alters pulp sensitivity, supporting the concept of pulpal-periodontal interrelationship. Early periodontal intervention may prevent irreversible pulpal changes.