Periodontitis associated with Hajdu-Cheney syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Hajdu-Cheney syndrome (HCS) is an inheritable, rare disorder of bone metabolism, associated with acro-osteolysis of the distal phalanges, short stature, distinctive craniofacial and skull changes, premature tooth loss, and periodontitis. This report focuses on the periodontal manifestations of HCS. METHODS: A 22-year-old female presented with the characteristic clinical features of HCS, including short stature, small face, prominent epicanthal folds, thin lips, small mouth, and short hands. There were no abnormal biochemical, hematological, or hormonal data. Tests for bone mineral density were indicative of osteoporosis. Cephalometric analysis revealed hypoplasia of the midface and increased cranial base angle; the maxilla and the mandible were set posteriorly. The sella turcica was enlarged, elongated, and wide open with slender clinoids. Hair samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy, and tooth cementum and dentin were evaluated histologically. RESULTS: According to the periodontal evaluation, gingival inflammation was 12.5%, bleeding on probing score was 24%, probing depths averaged 4 to 6 mm, and clinical attachment loss averaged 3 to 6 mm. Class II furcations were found on three teeth. Almost all teeth exhibited pathological mobility of varying degrees. There was a generalized, horizontal bone loss of approximately 50%. Three teeth had to be extracted because of severe localized periodontal destruction. Histologic examination of the dentin and the cementum was normal. CONCLUSIONS: HCS periodontitis is associated with an unpredictable and uneven, rapid rate of periodontal destruction of unknown etiology. Further research is required to identify the role of the possible pathogenic factors involved.

Advances in oral health knowledge of Greek navy recruits and their socioeconomic determinants.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to evaluate temporal changes on oral health knowledge and attitudes among two populations of young Greek males (age 19-29 years) undergoing their military training. A secondary aim was to identify socioeconomic trends that may have influenced the above. METHODS: A total of 2,764 healthy subjects (1511 in 1985, and 1253 in 1996) answered a standardized questionnaire of oral health issues. Respondents were stratified in 3 groups, according to their educational status (ES); their responses were compared using the chi-square statistic. The evaluation of socioeconomic indicators utilized longitudinal data from the national Household Expenditures Survey. RESULTS: An overall improvement was noted in the majority of "Knowledge" and "Attitudes" variables in 1996, as compared to 1985. Education seems to play an important role in both knowledge and attitudes. These changes may also be partially attributed to a shift in consuming standards from the coverage of main needs to income disposal directed towards the achievement of better quality of life.