Periotest values: Its reproducibility, accuracy, and variability with hormonal influence

Tooth mobility can be assessed by both subjective and objective means. The use of subjective measures may lead to bias and hence it becomes imperative to use objective means to assess tooth mobility. It has also been observed that hormonal fluctuations may have significantly influence tooth mobility. AIMS: The study was undertaken to assess the reproducibility of periotest in the assessment of tooth mobility and, to unravel the obscurity associated with the hormonal influence on tooth mobility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 100 subjects were included in the study and were divided equally into two groups based on their age, group I (11-14 years) and group II(16-22 years). RESULTS: There was no statistical significant difference between the periotest values (PTV) taken at two different time periods with a time difference of 20 minutes. PTV of group I was found to have a statistical significant greater PTV than group II. CONCLUSION: Periotest can reliably measure tooth mobility. Tooth mobility is greater during puberty as compared to adolescence and during adolescence mobility was slightly greater in males.