Exploring the Effect of Periodontal Status and Bone Density on Dry Socket Development: A Case–Control Study

Objective: This case–control study aimed to evaluate the relationship between periodontal status and bone density, as interpreted by the mandibular cortical index (MCI) and the development of dry socket (DS).

Methods: The study included 670 patients, of whom 270 developed DS (DS group) and 400 did not develop DS (control group) following tooth extraction. The periodontal examinations and panoramic radiographs of all participants were evaluated, classifying periodontal status according to the 2017 workshop guidelines. If a patient had periodontitis, the stage and grade were also noted. In addition, each patient’s bone density was assessed using the MCI score derived from panoramic radiographs. The collected data were analyzed statistically.

Results: The incidence of DS was significantly higher in females than in males (P < .05). The rates of patients with an MCI class 1 (C1) score and those with periodontitis were higher in the DS group than in the control group. However, no significant relationship was found between the stage and grade of periodontitis and DS (P > .05).

Conclusion: This study showed that the incidence of DS was higher in female patients than in males, even without the use of oral contraceptives. Although there were notable proportional differences in periodontal status and MCI scores in the DS group, these were not statistically significant. The overall periodontal condition of the patient may not significantly affect the development of DS. Nevertheless, further studies using more objective techniques to measure bone density could be beneficial in exploring the relationship between bone density and DS.

Cite this article as: Okumuş ÖF. Exploring the effect of periodontal status and bone density on dry socket development: A case–control study. Arch Basic Clin Res. 2024;6(3):221-227.