Evaluation of salivary cortisol levels in peri-implant diseases: An analytical observational study

A well-documented positive correlation exists between salivary cortisol levels (SCLs) and periodontal disease. Given the clinical and pathophysiological similarities between peri-implant diseases and periodontal conditions, this study aimed to explore the association between SCLs and peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis.

An analytical observational study was conducted involving 86 patients who had been using dental prostheses for a minimum of one year. Unstimulated salivary samples were collected from all the participants. Clinical assessments included periodontal probing depth (PPD), papilla bleeding index (PBI), Mombelli modified plaque index (mPI), and radiographic evaluation of bone loss. Based on clinical and radiographic findings, the subjects were categorized into three groups: (1) individuals with healthy peri-implant tissues, (2) patients with peri-implant mucositis, and (3) patients with peri-implantitis. Salivary cortisol concentrations were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by independent t-tests and post hoc Tukey comparisons.

Significant differences were observed in mean PPD values between the three groups (P<0.05), with the peri-implantitis group exhibiting the highest values. Likewise, mPI scores varied significantly across the groups (P<0.05). However, no significant differences were detected in SCLs between the three groups.

Within the limitations of this study, no significant association was identified between SCLs and peri-implant disease. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs are recommended to validate these findings.