The effect of mechanical stimulation on the keratinization of sulcular epithelium

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of mechanical stimulation on the keratinization of the sulcular epithelium in four adult Rhesus monkeys. Each animal received a thorough prophylaxis. One week later, each monkey received one of the following modalities of plaque control: (a) daily intravenous tetracycline and rubber cup prophylaxis, (b) daily rubber cup prophylaxis, (c) daily intravenous tetracycline injections; (d) no treatment, as a control. After sacrifice and tissue processing the histologic sections were evaluated for the presence of sulcular keratinization. The keratin width and length were measured, and an Inflammatory Index determined. It was found that all treatment modalities reduced inflammation significantly, when compared to the control. No differences among the three procedures tested were found. Although all permitted keratinization to develop, sulcular keratinization was significantly increased when daily prophylaxes were performed. It was concluded that mechanical stimulation of the sulcular epithelium, seemingly plays a role in promoting its keratinization.