Periodontal status of hypothyroid patients on thyroxine replacement therapy: A comparative cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Thyroid hormones play a significant role in bone remodeling. However, there are few studies on the effect of these hormones on periodontium. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the periodontal status of hypothyroid patients on thyroxine replacement therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical parameters (plaque index, bleeding index, probing pocket depth [PPD], and clinical attachment level [CAL]) and radiographic parameters (Mandibular cortical width and panoramic mandibular index) were recorded in 52 hypothyroid patients on thyroxine replacement therapy (Study group) and 50 individuals without signs and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction (Control group). The effect of dosage and duration of therapy on clinical and radiographical parameters were also assessed in the study group. RESULTS: Statistically significant higher PPD (P = 0.008) and clinical attachment loss (P = 0.032) were observed in the study group in comparison to the control group. However, no significant differences were observed within the hypothyroid group with varying doses and duration of therapy. Furthermore, there was no correlation between the dosage and duration of therapy with periodontal status. Regression analysis showed that hypothyroidism and thyroxine replacement therapy was a significant predictor of PPD and CAL even after controlling for the effect of age in hypothyroid patients. CONCLUSION: Hypothyroid patients on thyroxine replacement therapy may be at increased risk for periodontal destruction. However, this needs to be validated through longitudinal studies.