Effects of HRT on the Outcomes of Initial Periodontal Treatment

Hormone replacement therapy(HRT) has great importance in treatment of postmenopausal symptoms. It is known that periodontal tissues are affected by sex hormones. Although, research focusing on the effects of HRT on periodontal treatment outcomes is limited. The aim of this study is to assess whether HRT has an effect on the outcomes of initial periodontal treatment considering clinical parameters and gingival crevicular fluid IL-1_β and PGE-2 levels in a group of post-menopausal women with chronic periodontitis.

Method:

30 post-menopausal chronic periodontitis patients were randomly assigned to a group. The patients in the test group (n=15) strated receiving HRT concurrently with the periodontal treatment. The control group (n=15) did not receive HRT. Groups received the same periodontal treatment. Plaque index, sulcus bleeding index, periodontal pocket depth and relative attachment level from 6 sites in each tooth were recorded. Measurements were performed at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months following periodontal treatment. Serum estradiol level, bone mineral density, and gingival crevicular fluid IL-1_β and PGE-2 content was measured at baseline and 6 months following periodontal treatment.

Result: There were not statistically significant differences by means of clinical outcomes and GCF IL-1_β and PGE-2 content between groups. 

Conclusion:

Post-menopausal women with periodontal disease whether they are using HRT or not, would benefit equally from initial periodontal treatment. Until a true causal relationship is established women should maintain good periodontal health pre- and postmenopausal periods.