Comparative scanning electron microscopy of root surfaces

in juvenile and adult periodontitis: A report of two cases

Sami S. Shafik,* A.E. Zaki,**
S.H. Ashrafi**
*  College of Dentistry, King Saud University, P.O. Box 60169, Riyadh 11545, Saudi Arabia
** College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA.
 

The purpose of the present investigation was to compare the detailed topography of root sur­faces adjacent to periodontal pockets in one case of juvenile and one case of adult periodon­titis. Clinical examination including periodontal charting was performed and complete medical history obtained in each case. Teeth that were extracted according to the treatment plan were prepared for scanning electron microscopy to examine and compare the root surfaces of the two cases.

The observations of the adult periodontitis (AP) specimens showed frequent coverage of the affected root surfaces by calculus and different types of plaque bacteria. In the juvenile periodontitis (JP) specimens, bacterial plaque and calculus were found on the cervical third of root surfaces. The middle part of the affected root surfaces appeared cracked with defects in cementum. Farther apically, the cracks increased in number and magnitude and appeared as furrows with some areas devoid of cementum.