Occurrence of vertical bone loss in molar furcation of adult rural population

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to report the occurrence and severity of the vertical subclassification of furcation involvement (FI) in the first and second molars and evaluation of risk indicators associated with vertical bone loss in the furcation area. Material and methods This study is nested to a representative sample of individuals who participated in an epidemiologic survey in a rural area of South Brazil. Individuals with at least one first and/or second molar with horizontal furcation involvement class II or III (n = 167) were included. Complete periodontal examinations were performed in six sites per tooth. FI was evaluated with Nabers probe. Periapical radiographs were performed with a digital sensor. Radiograph subclassification of the vertical component of FI was established according to the bone loss until the coronal third of the root (Subclass A), until the medium third (subclass B), or apical third (subclass C). Results 89 individuals with 139 teeth were evaluated. The maxilla molars showed a higher occurrence of vertical bone loss associated with FI. 48% of these teeth had infrabony defects in the furcation area. Dental plaque, gingival bleeding, Probing deep > 4mm and former and smokers were associated with a greater percentage of the vertical bone loss in the furcation area. Conclusion Upper molars showed more occurrence of vertical subclass more severe compared with mandibular molars, which may be associated with poor prognosis for maintenance of these teeth in follow-up. Dental plaque, gingival bleeding, deep pockets and smoker status were associated with more severity in vertical bone loss inside furcation area. Clinical relevance : Vertical subclassification defined by periapical radiographs can evaluate residual attachment, prognosis, select appropriate treatment, and personal support needs to retain teeth for a long period after treatment.