Scores of plaque, bleeding, suppuration and probing depth to predict probing attachment loss 5 years of observation following nonsurgical periodontal therapy

The purpose of the present study was to determine the diagnostic value of clinical scores of supragingival plaque, bleeding, suppuration and probing depth to predict probing attachment loss in patients on maintenance following nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Non-molar teeth in 39 subjects were monitored and the above scores were repeatedly obtained throughout 5 years of observation following initial treatment. Probing attachment loss between 0-60 months was determined by a combination of linear regression analysis and end-point analysis. The results revealed that all the investigated scores were associated with probing attachment loss. This association was demonstrated by improved diagnostic predictability along with increased frequency or magnitude of the various scores. Also, the diagnostic predictability improved with increase in length of time for recording of the scores. The diagnostic predictability of either accumulated plaque scores and accumulated bleeding scores reached a maximum of about 30%. Residual probing depth greater than or equal to 7 mm reached a predictability of around 50% and increase in probing depth greater than or equal to 1.0 mm reached about 80% after 60 months. Thus, of the clinical scores investigated, increase in probing depth was found to be most valuable in predicting probing attachment loss.