Periodontal status following the alignment of palatally impacted canine teeth

Twenty-three patients who had completed treatment to resolve the unilateral palatal impaction of a maxillary canine by orthodontic means were examined 2.3 years (mean) after all appliances had been discarded. Scores were noted for the plaque index, gingival index, attached gingiva, pocket depth, and bone support on each of the affected teeth and also on the contralateral canine which had been unaffected and thus acted as a control. In addition, the teeth immediately adjacent to both canines were similarly scored. The results indicated no significant difference in the plaque index and the amount of attached gingiva, while the gingival index, pocket depth, and particularly the bone support all showed statistically valid differences. It is suggested that in these cases a postorthodontic assessment of the state of the supporting tissues be performed and periodontal treatment instituted in those requiring it.