Effects of proximal caries with loss of contact on alveolar bone levels in primary molars of Iraqi children using modified bitewing digital imaging

Abstract

Destructive forms of periodontal disease can occur in children & adolescents.
Proximal caries, gingival inflammation & loss of lamina dura are risk factors in
development of alveolar bone loss. This study aims to determine the effect of
proximal caries with loss of contact of primary molars on interdental hard tissues
using a modified bitewing digital imaging technique .One hundred Iraqi children
(7&8 years old) of both sexes were included in this study, half of them having
proximal caries in their primary molars & served as study group & the other half
served as control. The results showed a significant increase in marginal &
interproximal alveolar bone crest height in study group with male predominance. Loss
of lamina dura & irregular crestal bone appearance was also evident around primary
molars with proximal caries. Non significant relationship was found between gingival
inflammation & interdental hard tissues. The results indicated that proximal caries
with loss of contact play an important role in development of incipient periodontal
disease in children.