Comparative evaluation of periodontal status and salivary mmp-8 levels during orthodontic tooth movement in subjects with healthy and compromised periodontium – an in vivo study

Background & Objective: Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) involves bone remodeling influenced by mechanical forces and inflammation. Managing periodontally compromised patients is challenging, and MMP-8 serves as a key biomarker of periodontal response. The impact of orthodontic treatment on periodontal health in periodontally compromised patients has consistently been a subject of debate. Hence, this study aims to evaluate and compare periodontal status and salivary MMP-8 levels during OTM in individuals with healthy and compromised periodontium. Materials and Methods: 24 orthodontic patients (18–30 years) were divided into Group A (healthy periodontium) and Group B (compromised periodontium). Periodontal parameters—Bleeding on Probing (BoP), Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL)—were assessed at baseline, before initiation of OTM and at 3, 6, and 9 months during OTM. Salivary MMP-8 levels were measured using ELISA at baseline and after alignment. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) was used to evaluate alveolar bone levels in Group B at baseline and 9 months. Results: Both groups showed improvement in periodontal parameters, indicating stability during orthodontic treatment. Both groups showed transient increases in MMP-8, reflecting physiological tissue remodeling. CBCT revealed minor bone changes in Group B without compromising periodontal integrity. Conclusion: Orthodontic tooth movement when preceded by thorough periodontal management and supported by meticulous oral hygiene and controlled forces, can be safely and effectively performed in both healthy and compromised periodontium, underscoring the efficacy of an integrated perio ortho approach in achieving optimal periodontal outcomes.