Papillary Height and Its Relation with Interproximal Distances and Cementoenamel Junction in Subjects with Chronic Periodontitis. A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Presence of intact interdental papilla is considered as an essential component of aesthetic dentistry. Loss or absence of interdental papilla creates black triangles which are unpleasing.

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to determine relation of interproximal distances and cementoenamel junction with the classification of interdental papilla recession after surgical exposure in chronic periodontitis patients.

Materials And Methods: This cross-sectional, single masked study group involved 198 interdental papillae in 50 chronic periodontitis patients subjected to open flap debridement. The subjects were divided into three groups according to loss of height of interdental papillae: Class I papilla, Class II papilla, Class III papilla. The interproximal distances included vertical and horizontal distance. The vertical distance was measured from apical point of the contact area to alveolar crest; horizontal distance was measured between roots at the alveolar crest. Distance from mid buccal cementoenamel junction to apical point of the contact area was also measured.

Results: The vertical distance was found to be significantly affecting all the classes of loss of papillary height (p<0.05). Significantly positive correlation was found between vertical distance and buccal cementoenamel junction (p<0.05). On applying multiple linear regressions vertical distance was found to be strongest determinant of loss of papillary height.

Conclusion: Although interproximal distances and cementoenamel junction affect the height of interdental papilla, other factors influencing the existence of interdental papilla should also be taken into consideration for treatment planning to achieve better aesthetics.